RICHMOND — South Laurel showed grit and late-game composure Friday, storming back from a nine-point deficit entering the fourth quarter to defeat Madison Southern, 64–63.
The Lady Cardinals trailed 54–45 after three quarters but closed the game on a 19–9 run to improve to 2–1 on the season.
South Laurel led 22–21 after the first quarter before falling behind 38–37 at halftime. Despite shooting struggles, 24-of-58 from the field, 5-of-22 from 3-point range, and 11-of-22 at the free-throw line , the Lady Cardinals found a way to pull out a road win. They outrebounded the Lady Eagles 32–31, forced 22 turnovers, and collected 14 steals.
Coach Tod Windlan said the result was encouraging, even if the performance came with concerns.
“We found a way to win and that is always a good sign but we have a lot of work to do moving forward,” he said. “Not real happy with how we are playing and have to get some things correct as our December schedule is quite challenging.”
The late defensive surge proved crucial, according to Windlan.
“I scratch my head seeing we shot 5-of-22 from 3 and 11-of-21 at from the free-throw line and still won,” he said. “Our defense was very poor for three quarters and stepped it up in fourth when we desperately needed it.”
South Laurel was led by Maci Messer’s 15 points and eight rebounds while Peyton “Skeeter” Mabe delivered 15 points, six assists, and three steals. Aubrey Bundy added 11 points, four rebounds, and three steals.
Windlan noted several key contributions off the bench as well.
“Kenzie Fannin and Emma Adams came off the bench with seven points a piece,” he said.
