York’s toughness knocks New Kent from ranks of unbeaten

New Kent’s Isaiah Carr (25) absorbs contact from York’s Jack Herdey (34) as he makes his way for a lay-up.

Robb Johnson photo

“I am not going to lie; this one really hurts.”

Those were the words from New Kent High School boys’ basketball coach Garett Ross after his team was physically dominated by the York Falcons 61-43 during the Dec. 7 Bay Rivers District matchup.

New Kent found it difficult to score inside early on, as the visiting Falcons’ physicality kept the hosts out the paint. The stifling defense along with the offensive output by York resulted in a 32-14 halftime lead for the visitors.

After finishing the third quarter trailing 46-27, New Kent finally began to find success against York. The Trojans began converting baskets and finding paths to score. The result was a 14-2 run by the hosts, pulling New Kent within seven (48-41) by the time the four-minute mark hit in the final frame.

But the visitors resorted to their aggressive style, converting a basket and a free throw to return their lead to ten (51-41). From there, York tacked on 10 more points which stretched the lead to the final margin, only surrendering two points to New Kent the rest of the way.

Ross commented about the nervousness of his team in the contest playing a factor.

“We fumbled the ball tonight, we played jittery, and it became a long night,” he commented. “Our physicality is fine, our heart is fine; we just have to be able to handle these things emotionally and play tough, and fight through them.”

New Kent drops to 3-1 on the season.