Foul-plagued Wayne Christian slips past Community

By Ryan Hanchett
Published in Sports on December 17, 2011 11:19 PM

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Wayne Christian enjoyed the best six minutes of its season on Saturday afternoon.

The result was an early 18-6 advantage that led to a thrilling 56-53 win over Carolina Christian 1-A Conference foe Community Christian in the friendly confines of Clifford Gymnatorium.

The Eagles raced out to the early lead on the strength of some hot shooting by Victoria Combs and Katie Isenhower. The duo scored 11 of the first 18 points for Wayne Christian and set the tone offensively.

As the pace of the game slowed down, the Cyclones climbed back into contention as several Wayne Christian starters were saddled with foul trouble. By halftime the visitors had cut the deficit to just seven points.

"We only have nine girls and we only really have five that have played a lot of basketball," Wayne Christian head coach Lynn Swets said. "We have to be able to stay on the floor with our starters when things get tough, but tonight everyone contributed and it led to a win."

Community Christian made things interesting in the final period as more foul trouble led to the disqualification of two of Wayne Christian's starters. Having the double bonus to fall back on, Community began driving to the basket and forcing turnovers with its full-court defense.

The plan faltered, however, as the Cyclones' shooting woes kept them from ever tying the game. As a team, Community Christian shot just 13 of 40 from the free throw line on the night.

The visitors got the last possession of the game trailing 59-56 with eight seconds to play, but a 3-pointer by Dara McLean clanged off the rim and a follow-up attempt by Bryona Chavis fell short as the horn sounded.

"We had to make it exciting for those last two minutes," Swets said. "But this was only our second win of the season and I know the girls are excited about getting it."

Wayne Christian (2-6 overall) will enjoy an extended break for the holidays. The Eagles will return to action on Jan. 5 at the Eastern N.C. School for the Deaf.