Boys B-Ball: A balanced approach

Johnny Dittman scored a team-high 18 points (photo by Jim Lindquist)

Four players scored in double figures as the Tigers won their third straight in convincing fashion, a 74-54 victory over Northfield Tuesday night in Northfield.

Tiger coach Shane Wyandt was pleased with his team's effort in the rematch with the Raiders that went much differently than when the two teams met in December at Tiger Gym. In that one Farmington had to overcome a double digit halftime deficit to pull out a 64-61 win.

"A really well-played game for the most part by our guys," Wyandt said. "We came out strong and really continued that solid effort the whole way on both ends of the floor.

"I really liked our defensive effort most of the night. Some early trouble forced us to change our defensive game plan a bit but I thought the kids adjusted nicely and made a positive out of it."

A strong first half defensive stand gave the visitors a 30-18 lead at intermission, a lead they would continue to stretch throughout the second half.

Wyandt has stressed all season that his team is at it best when is shares the ball and the scoring load. Tuesday's win could serve as Exhibit A for that position.

All an all, 10 different Farmington players found their way into the scoring column with Johnny Dittman leading the scoring parade with 18 points, including a pair of three-pointers.

Eli Rockett finished with 10 points and four rebounds (photo by Jim Lindquist)

Leading scorer Zach Speikers and Wyatt Ferm each had a pair of three's and finished with 14  points apiece. Eli Rockett, forced to log extra minutes inside due to Nick Varner's illness and early foul trouble, finished with 10 points.

"Eli put forth a really good effort tonight," Wyandt said.

Mac Bassett scored six points and was a force on the boards, pulling down a team-high seven rebounds.

The only down side of the night came in the injury department where Speikers suffered an undetermined knee injury in the second half and top reserve Jordan DeCroock left the floor after getting kicked in the head in a battle for a loose ball.

"We're hoping Zach's injury isn't anything structural," Wyandt said. "Jordan tested out OK on the bench so he should be fine."

Farmington, 18-7 overall and 8-5 in the conference, will shoot for its fourth in a row Friday night when it entertains Chanhassen in the regular season finale. The Section 1AAAA post-season tournament begins next week.