Dexter, Missouri - The Dexter 8th Grade Middle School was in action last night against the Bell City Cubs with some hard fought action. Coming off a tough loss last week to the powerful Bloomfield Wildcats, the Bearcats were energized and able to pickup the win over the Cubs by a score of 60 to 39.
The Bearcats had outstanding defensive play by Payton Tinnon and Zach Potts on the night. The two ‘Cats were assigned to guard the Bell City Cubs’ standouts in players by the name of Nichols and Hicks. These two athletes have been the “go-to” players for Bell City all season long.
“You have to know that the defense of Tinnon and Potts was great,” commented Coach Josh Dowdy. “After 3 quarters of play, Hicks and Nichols had combined for only 2-points.”
That was a major highlight for Coach Dowdy as he stresses defensive excellence to his teams. The Bearcats have worked hard this season and found success.
“The entire team really played well defensively,” added Dowdy. “I just hope that type of aggressive defense will continue the rest of the season.”
Offensively, the Bearcats had another big night from Jason Jarrell. Jarrell had 29 total points on the night and remains the key threat for the Bearcats scoring. Last week's loss against Bloomfield was proof as Jarrell got into early foul trouble and was forced to the bench. The deficit created in the first half was unable to be made up in the remainder of the game.
“Jason is simply unselfish, as you had previously pointed out in the SMT articles,” added Coach Dowdy. “He is simply unselfish on the court and is quick to feed the open man, but also knows when he needs to score and does it.”
The Bearcats had a revived energy in this game that put them back on the winning track. The loss to a very good Bloomfield team last week seemed to open their eyes and improve their performance.
“We need that energy going forward in the season,” said Dowdy. “It was a tough loss to Bloomfield last week and the kids seem to come out hungry.”
Both the 7th and 8th Grade Middle School teams will be in action again tonight for another home game against the Puxico Indians. Game time is a 6:00 PM.
“We need all the fans we can get there to support these kids,” Dowdy said. “This is really an excellent group that I enjoy coaching. It would be awesome to have a big crowd at the Middle School gym to cheer them on.”
