KIRTLAND—In a showdown of the reigning Chagrin Valley Conference Valley Division co-champions on Friday, Kirtland pulled away from visiting Berkshire in the second half on the way to a 29-21 victory.
With the win, the Hornets improved to 2-1 overall and 2-0 in league play while Berkshire dropped to 1-4, 1-1.
Leading 12-9 at halftime, the Hornets used a 10-5 run in the third quarter to pull away from the Badgers.
“No real adjustments,” said Kirtland coach Matt Ridgeway when asked if the Hornets changed anything after the break. “When you’re holding someone to nine (points), you’re like, ‘Okay, what we’re doing is good, but offensively let’s try to reward ourselves more.’ Other than that, it was just who wants to win?”
Emily Ridgway led Kirtland offensively in just her second game back after starting the season with an injury. She finished with 11 points on 3-of-4 shooting, while also going a perfect 4-for-4 from the charity stripe.
“I think the points are going to come for Emily,” Coach Ridgeway said. “I think we need to get her some more opportunities, more shots.”
Addison Fleming was rewarded with the “K” chain post-game by Coach Ridgeway for her effort tonight. She may have only finished with two points, but a lot of what she did won’t show up on the stat sheet.
“I really liked the way Addie penetrated to the basket,” Ridgeway said. “Although it didn’t work out, she did a lot; she caused a lot.”
Anna Dumstorff contributed seven points on 3-of-5 shooting including a 3-pointer.
Kirtland ended the evening shooting 6-of-15 from the free throw line, but the Hornets made them when it mattered most. The Hornets scored five of their seven fourth-quarter points from the free throw line.
Berkshire dropped to 1-4 but the Badgers have played a challenging schedule and have been competitive in each game this season.
“We compete every single day and that’s what we ask,” said Berkshire coach James Bosley. “I told them after the game our effort was through the roof for 32 minutes tonight.”
Ivy Martin led the Badgers with nine points on 2-of-4 shooting while going an efficient 5-of-6 from the free throw line.
Berkshire will return to the court on Dec. 12 when they host the Grand Valley Mustangs. Kirtland takes the hardwood next on the same date when they travel to Wickliffe for a bout with the Blue Devils.
