Re: SMS 30 SHC 38 halftime
Interesting calling out the refs when it was the SMS crowd yelling at them the most, especially the bald one chewing gum. If players can't chew gum playing ball, why is a referee allowed to chew gum? Mr. Gum-chewer was very absent minded and very inconsistent in his calls, especially many missed traveling calls on SHC, yet many called against SMS. Sometimes he forgot where to stand and the other refs had to help him. What a joke! In regards to SHC layups. Most were from (counter punch) defensive board pull downs, outlet passes, which led to layups for SHC. St. Mary's press worked just fine especially in the beginning and the start of the 3rd quarter. In the beginning, what was uncharacteristic of SMS was not scoring off of these turnovers, with many missed layups and many missed FT's. Yes, SHC bigs were key for SHC defense with many blocks (even on Decosta), but still too many missed layups. SHC scored well on SMS's missed shots, not so much against the press (more turnovers against the press than scoring opps from what I counted). SMS offense was at its lowest in the 2nd quarter. SHC totally took advantage when SMS failed to score, not so much in breaking SMS press, not anymore than other teams. The first few minutes of the 3rd when SMS got back in the game was the real key. They played less eratic, forced the turnovers and capitalized. That's the character of Lady Rams basketball.
Cayton's shot may have been luck just like the one she launched beyond 1/2 court in a prior game before the 1st half ended. But, it sure looked better than all the missed SMS shots early on. SHC played well, stuck to their game plan, and nearly pulled off the upset. Maybe they just have SMS's #? They definitely put a scare into the SMS fans. But, this truly was a game where SMS was shooting themselves in the foot, many forced (rushed) shots that just did not fall as they normally do. It again was great counter play by SHC countering on the many missed SMS shots, and scoring off of these counters. Again, great game plan by SHC. It nearly worked. SHC is a good team and a good match up with SMS. But, everyone that knows SMS and watches them consistently, knows that many moments of this game were not characteristic of SMS. SMS cannot afford to play like this vs MM or SoCal rep (if they get past MM), or they certainly will lose. Congrats to SHC on a good show thru the playoffs and making this a very exciting game for all who watched. But, suck it up and accept the defeat. This isn't horseshoes! It's basketball. Fantasy Island was cancelled years ago. So much for the 10 point SHC prediction. Btw, never saw anyone (so called experts), especially SMS fans post or predict a SMS 20 point victory. If you look closer I was open to take SMS +10, but never saw your response for a wager. Guessing you must be still dreaming Cityboy! Wake up! You and your prediction were 15 points off. Nice try! LOL!
