2 free throws with 17 seconds left sealed the win
(photo by Jim Lindquist)
The Tigers made it two in a row with a come-from-behind 72-70 win over Section 1 rival Rochester Mayo Tuesday night, Jan. 3, in Rochester.
Farmington coach Shane Wyandt said his team's fourth win of the season wasn't a work of art but it was another step in the right direction.
"For the most part, it was a sloppy game," he said, "but I'm proud of our kids for sticking with it when it seemed to be slipping out of reach.
"Our attitude was great but once again we didn't come out sharp in the first half. Our bench played well and kept us competitive."
Despite a slow start, the visitors rallied to take a 29-28 lead at halftime only to see the Spartans assume temporary control early in the second period. Mayo still led by 10 points with four minutes to play.
Pressure defense and some clutch shooting turned the tide down the stretch. Mackinley Bassett hit some key shots in the rally and Johnny Dittman broke the final tie with two free throws with 17 seconds remaining.
"Mac (Bassett) got it going in the second half with some much-needed baskets and several guys helped off the bench," Wyandt said. "We played deep again. The rotation seems to change every game."
Nick Varner 20 points, 12 rebounds
Sophomores Bassett and Nick Varner and junior Darren Beenken combined for 50 of the Tiger points. Varner topped the scoring charts with 20 points and also pulled down a team-high 12 rebounds for a double-double. Bassett scored a career-high 18 and Beenken chimed in with 12 and seven key rebounds.
Sophomore Dittman added seven points, including the game-winning free throws, and Varner and senior Jacob Hanson each contributed a trio of assists.
"This was a much-needed section win for us and Thursday's game is another big one," Wyandt said.
The Tigers entertain section rival Owatonna Thursday night at Tiger Gym. Tip-off is slated for 7:30.
