RANGELY I The Rangely High School boys’ basketball team posted a big win in their last game of the pre-holiday as they beat South Routt County (Soroco) by a 56-52 margin.
The Panther cagers had lost to Soroco just one week previously by 10 points, but the team clearly learned from their loss, made some adjustments, and had a huge fourth quarter to secure a big win for the boys as they prepare for the conference regular season, which begins after the holiday break.
Rangely came out and played well in the first quarter, moving to a slim lead after one period.
The Soroco Rams controlled the second eight minutes, forcing both teams to go into the locker room to figure out what it was that was working and what wasn’t working.
Soroco had an outstanding third quarter and looked to be in control with a 16-10 edge during the third eight minutes.
However, Rangely’s players proved they had tremendous heart as they had an incredible final period. They scored 21 points and their defensive intensity increased as they held the Rams to only eight points.
The Panthers looked to be a team with multiple scoring threats in their season opening Cowboy Shootout Tournament, but they struggled off and on in their attempt to play together for 32 minutes.
In this game, they proved they had a full game in them, and their offensive weapons did their job. The Panthers will play in Plateau Valley on Jan. 8 and play host to Cedaredge on Jan. 9.
The Panther team looks to be a talented, well-coached team that will be exciting to watch as the conference season begins.
