Panthers & Wolverines victorious, setup for rivarly rematch Friday

The Ellwood City Wolverines used an early cushion to easily cruise to a 59-34 victory over New Brighton Tuesday night while the Riverside Panthers found their stroke from the free throw line to hold on and beat Aliquippa 61-59.  With victories for both squads, Ellwood City (8-7 overall) next travels to Riverside (10-6 overall) for their second meeting of the season – with playoff implications on the line.

For the Wolverines, a early 16-3 first quarter cushion and 17 points from senior Jordan Recce was enough to oust the Lions.  Ellwood City junior Anthony Roth led all scorers with 18 points, including a 10-13 performance from the free throw line.  Anthony Milliner led New Brighton with 10 points in defeat.

For the Panthers, who led for much of the game, a strong team performance from the free throw line secured the section victory over the hosting ‘Quips.  As a team, Riverside finished 20-22 from the free throw line (including 16 straight), and were led by junior Austin Dambach who finished with 19 points (5-5 from the free throw line).

The Panthers also received strong efforts from seniors Justin Baust (12 points, 2-4 FT, 2 3PT), Dylan Speicher (12 points, 4-4 FT, 2 3pt), and Jesse Fornataro (9 points, 7-7 FT).

The Wolverines look to avenge an earlier 15-point defeat at the hands of the Panthers when the two squads meet up Friday night for section play.  Ellwood City is on a modest 2 game win streak while the Panthers have won 4 of 5 since their January victory at Ellwood City.

Top four teams from each section make the playoffs with the Wolverines currently holding the fourth and final spot in WPIAL 3A Section 1.

Varsity game tips off at 7:30pm.