Kenston’s offense was firing on all cylinders in Friday’s non-conference game against visiting Gilmour Academy but the Bombers had trouble slowing down the Lancers and fell, 93-74.
“I just told someone that I don't remember losing a game when we score 74 but we can't give 93,” said Kenston coach Matt Vespa. “Some of that was us having to scramble at the end of the game but we need to do a better job playing team defense. Offensively we will be fine this year.”
Led by Josh Kain with 22, four Bombers scored in double figures.
Ryan Kooser finished with 21 points, Brian Henderson contributed with 15 and Kee-shaun Merrill pitched in with 10.
The Bombers finished with nine 3-pointers and converted 18 of 26 free throw tries.
Kooser scored eight points in the third quarter as the Bombers battled their way back into the game.
“Kooser did a great job for us scoring inside and out,” Vespa said. “He battled leg cramps for most of the game too so what he did was even more impressive.”
Gilmour led 45-34 at halftime but Kenston made a run in the second half to make it a two possession game.
The Lancers responded each time Kenston made a move to get back into the game.
“We got down early and had to battle back all night and every time we got close, we had it at five in the fourth quarter, they would make a big play,” Vespa said. “They are a really good team and they definitely played like it tonight.”
Kenston dropped to 1-1 on the year. The Bombers open Western Reserve Conference action at home on Tuesday when they entertain the North Rangers.
