With the game already swinging in a back and forth battle in the first quarter, junior Mairin Fowler sinks a 3-pointer, followed by a layup from senior tri-captain Megan Logan to tie up the game for the Blue Devils after Chatham took an early lead and ignited momentum in the crowd.
However, despite an excellent effort, the Blue Devils fell to Chatham 55-49, bringing their record for the season to 14-4.
“Going into the game, we knew that Chatham was going to be tough competition,” said senior tri-captain Darby Hubner. Last year, after four overtimes, Chatham, who would go on to win the state championship, overpowered the Blue Devils by six points. Westfield knew going into this year’s matchup they were preparing for a competitive game.
Early on, the game remained tight between both teams, with rapid scoring from both sides. Throughout the first two quarters, the Cougars sank 6 threes, which gave them a one-point lead going into halftime.
Despite allowing many 3-pointers in the first half, Fowler said, “We really locked down on it in the second half and worked together, and I’m really proud of this game.”
Hubner agreed, “It was apparent in the second half, where I feel we did a much better job. And I think that’s important to keep doing as we go into counties.”
Head coach Liz McKeon also commented on the team’s resilient effort throughout the game: “We gave up six three-pointers in the first half. We needed to make adjustments, and we didn’t let up one in the second half. So, I’m really proud of that. And the fight, there was not even a question that we showed up today.
Inconsistent officiating decisions also impacted the Blue Devils playing throughout the game, with Chatham going to the foul line 17 times, and Westfield only 7.
“Unfortunately, I feel the officials played a huge role in this game,” added McKeon. “And that’s unfortunate. They should let the kids play.”
The Blue Devils showed composure both offensively and defensively. Westfield consistently made layups and 2-pointers throughout both halves, while the Cougars had a difficult time making it into the paint.
“This game taught us the importance of staying composed when things aren’t going our way,” said Hubner. “Even though [the game] didn’t end the way we wanted it to, that is definitely something we excelled at and something we should continue to do for the rest of the season.”
The Blue Devils will play Holmdel away on Feb. 1 at the Coaches Choice Shore Challenge, hoping to continue their strong season and bounce back from a gritty loss against Chatham.
