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<\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"ASHLAND – Eddie Mahan\u2019s North Laurel Lady Jaguars started strong, but failed to finish against No. 10 Ashland on Saturday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Lady Jaguars (12-5) built a 17-6 lead in the first quarter, and led 29-21 at halftime before being outscored, 44-23, in the second half, en route to a 65-52 loss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After starting the season with a 9-1 mark, the Lady Jaguars are 3-4 during their last seven games \u2014 all losses though came against ranked teams \u2014 Ocoee, Fla., No. 13 South Laurel, No. 12 Campbell County, and No. 10 Ashland. Their other loss came against No. 1 Assumption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cSame issues, different game,\u201d North Laurel coach Eddie Mahan said. \u201cWe are a good team, but we are not where we need to be yet. When that\u2019s the case, it starts at the top, with me. Our attention to basketball fundamentals has to be better, and we have to have stronger, more consistent leadership in critical moments. Those shortcomings showed up again and ultimately cost us another opportunity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cPlaying top-10 teams multiple times is a challenge and a privilege, and it shows the level we\u2019re trying to stay,\u201d he added. \u201cBut at some point, competing isn\u2019t enough, you have to break through and win those games to earn your place. We\u2019re close, but close doesn\u2019t count. The responsibility to get us over that hump starts with me, and we\u2019ll go back to work to make sure we take the next step.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n