SJ Girl's Unbeaten Streak Ends

St. Joseph Girls' Unbeaten Streak Snapped in Intense Rivalry Night Battle Against Trumbull

2/4/24

Staff Writer

In a thrilling Rivalry Night clash between St. Joseph and Trumbull High School, the St. Joseph girls' basketball team faced their first defeat of the season in a closely contested matchup at Trumbull High. This traditional winter event, featuring both girls' and boys' teams in back-to-back games, is renowned for its Pink Fundraising game, drawing fans from both sides for an electric atmosphere in support of a charitable cause.

The game kicked off with St. Joseph struggling to find offensive rhythm, leading to a flat performance. However, in the first quarter, Grace Montelli's aggressive play provided a spark, contributing with two steals, a block, and an assist, as the Cadets secured a 10-7 lead.

Trumbull answered with a 10-0 run in the second period, momentarily taking control. It was Grace Montelli's deep three-pointer that halted Trumbull's momentum, yet by halftime, St. Joseph found themselves trailing 20-15, with Montelli being the lone scorer for the Cadets in the quarter.

The second half continued to present challenges for St. Joseph, with Trumbull extending their lead. Montelli's teammates Erin Donegan and Erin Lovett stepped up, with Donegan hitting her first three-pointer, and Lovett contributing four quick points. Despite their efforts, St. Joseph closed the third quarter trailing 30-25.

In a crucial final quarter, St. Joseph's offensive struggles intensified, managing to score only two points. Trumbull's defense held firm, securing a 38-27 victory and bringing an end to St. Joseph's undefeated streak.

While Coach Lindwall expressed disappointment with the loss, he acknowledged that it relieves the pressure of maintaining a perfect season. Looking ahead to the playoffs, the focus will be on learning from this experience, refining performance, and regaining the shooting touch.

| Team  | 1st Quarter | 2nd Quarter | 3rd Quarter | 4th Quarter | Final Score |

|---------------|-------------|-------------|-------------|-------------|-------------|

| St. Joseph    | 10          | 5           | 10          | 2           | 27          |

| Trumbull      | 7           | 13          | 10          | 8           | 38          |