Mystic Valley Boys Win 7th Straight

The Mystic Valley boys’ varsity basketball team won its seventh consecutive game with a 75-56 road victory over North Shore of Middleton on Tuesday, January 17.  With the win, the Eagles improved their overall record to 9-1, 6-0 in the Commonwealth Athletic Conference (CAC).

This CAC contest was a seesaw battle for the first three quarters.  After the first quarter, the game was tied (10-10), and Mystic Valley led by only one point (28-27) at halftime.  The third frame was even most of the way until senior forward Brian O’Connor and senior guard Greg Statho (who hit an incredible Hail Mary heave from halfcourt) connected on back-to-back three point shots to give the Eagles a seven point lead entering the fourth frame.

In the fourth quarter is when Mystic Valley turned up the tempo by playing aggressive team defense and running its fast break to perfection.

“This was a very big win for us because North Shore is in our division,” said Eagles’ head coach Tony Ferullo.  “Our team was up to the challenge when it counted most and I’m proud of how we finished business.  It was good to see how we came together and played with poise under pressure.”

Senior forward Ben Bottrell (23 points and 12 rebounds) and Statho (19 points) led the Mystic Valley scoring parade.  Coach Ferullo praised the unheralded play of Brian O’Connor who recorded a double-double (11 points and 10 rebounds). 

“Brian played his heart out at both ends of the court,” said Ferullo.  “He does all the dirty work that doesn’t show up in the box score.  He rolls his sleeves up and plays the game the right way.”

The Eagles’ next game is Friday, January 20, when they travel to play Chelsea High School in a 4:45 p.m. contest.