Advantage Herbert Morrison

Unbeaten Herbert Morrison Technical High School (HMTHS) sent a strong message to rivals in the ISSA Rural Schoolboys Basketball semi-finals after whipping York Castle High 85-44 in the opening game of their best-of-three under-16 series at Herbert Morrison court yesterday.

Led by a dominant all-around performance from Shamar Russell, Herbert Morrison showed no mercy as they powered their way to a commanding game one victory.

"We were aggressive and good defensively and we had a few stops and disrupted our opponents' game plan. We have a solid team and have been working hard so I am confident we will take game two," said Levar Rose, coach of HMTHS.

"The game was fun but it wasn't that competitive or challenging because York Castle are rebuilding and starting a new programme with a new coach. We are a more seasoned team so we had the upper hand over our opponents," added Rose.

HMTHS scored more than 20 points in all the quarters. The game was virtually over as a contest before half-time as HMTHS took a 21-4 first-quarter lead before extending the lead 22-8 at the half. By the end of the third quarter there was no coming back for York Castle, with HMTHS outscoring them 21-16 and in the fourth quarter 21-15 to cement the win.

Meanwhile, Peter Morgan, coach of York Castle, said despite the initial success in frustrating their opponents, the team struggled offensively, which led to the blowout loss.

"Our objective was to neutralise Herbert Morrison. In the first quarter we frustrated them but our boys were a bit reluctant offensively and this led to our loss," said Morgan.

"I still believe that we have the ability to beat Herbert Morrison regardless of the circumstances," added Morgan, who is optimistic about the next game.

Russell scored 22 points, seven rebounds and six steals, while Tyler Linton registered 10 points, seven rebounds, three assists and two steals and Rafael Stephenson 10 points, two rebounds and five steals for the winners. York Castle's Richard Brock scored 17 points, five rebounds, four blocks and three assists and Kelaughn Grant, 12 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks.

HMTHS will now look to close out their series when action resumes on Thursday at York Castle who will need a win to keep their season alive.