Lancers rout Bristol
Neshannock (76) Vs. Bristol (54)
Jan 27, 2014
The Neshannock High boys basketball team bounced back in fine fashion last night.
Ernie Burkes tossed in a game-high 31 points to lift the Lancers to a 76-54 win over Bristol (Ohio) at the Covelli Center in Youngstown in the See Them Rise Showcase.
Neshannock (14-4) was coming off a tough 61-58 WPIAL Section 2-AA road loss to Mohawk on Friday.
“This was a good win for us on a neutral floor,” Lancers coach John Corey said. “It was a much bigger gym than we’re used to and the guys were excited to play there; it’s a great venue to play in.
“I’m very pleased with the effort.”
Burkes registered 21 of his points in the first half, leading Neshannock to a 39-19 lead at the half. He added five assists and five steals as well.
“Ernie is a sparkplug,” Corey said. “When he’s clicking, we’re a tough team to beat. He shot the ball real well.
“You know you’re a good shooter when you can knock down shots in a place like that. I’m real impressed with how he shot the ball.”
Matt McKinney followed Burkes’ effort with 13 points and Ethan Moose added 11 markers, 12 rebounds and five assists. Marcus Giangiuli was next with eight points and three steals.
Brandon Lee paced the Panthers (10-5) with 19 points.
Bristol had its 30-game winning streak snapped last month against Columbiana.
Neshannock won the battle of the boards, 38-19. The Lancers were 32 of 58 from the floor.
Neshannock (7-3 section) is in third place in the section standings. Beaver Falls (9-1, 14-4) leads the way and Aliquippa (8-2, 12-5) is in second place. The Lancers host the Quips at 7:30 p.m. tomorrow, weather permitting. Aliquippa won the first meeting, 61-47.
“We took a tough loss to Aliquippa down there earlier in the year,” Corey said. “Hopefully this win over Bristol will be a springboard for us.”