By Cameron Dubin
Sports Reporter

Despite a momentum gaining third quarter, the Newton South Lions fell short on their senior night on Friday, losing 66-62 to No. 25 Westford Academy.

As a tradition on senior night, each senior member of the Lions was introduced before the game. They then would then walk their way to center court to meet their proud parents.

“It felt awesome,” said senior big man Brendan Duggan who had two points in the game while pushing through an ankle injury. “As a senior it was a great experience to be honored.”

Senior co-captain Geoff Gray, who co-led South in scoring with 14 points, said “It was kind of weird thinking it could be my second to last home game at South.”

As the game began, the focused shifted towards the task at hand.

“Once the game got started I just played the game and did what I could to win.” Gray said.

The Lions fought hard with the Grey Ghost, leading them 48-43 at the end of the third quarter.

Senior sharpshooter Jack Groper nailed four three pointer throughout the game along with a bucket to have 14 points.

Junior guard Alex Kiritsy helped out the Lions offense with 11 points at the end of the third.

But as the fourth quarter progressed, Westford began to get the edge by exploiting South’s missing link; 6’6 Duggan to match their big man in size.

Sophomore force, Sasha Hoban did do a good job on him throughout the game but the Grey Ghost big man had a size advantage.

“I was just disappointed we couldn’t get the win especially on senior night,” Gray said. “They play good team defense and had a 6’7 center that clogged the paint and made it tough for us to score. They were also patient on offense and got the best shot they could get.”

“Even though we lost, we played hard and hopefully we can keep that up.” Duggan said.

South transferred that disappointment towards the next game; a tough battle against Xaverian; a private school known for their great athletic program.

“We talked about how if we get a lead there’s no need to take our foot off the gas and continue to push the ball,” Duggan said.

Well the talking payed off as the Lions led 27-24 at halftime and never looked back, finishing the game up by 20 points, 64-46.

South is trying to keep that momentum with a big game against DCL member Waltham tonight. The Lions previously beat the Hawks 60-58 earlier in the season.

“They played a 2-3 zone the whole game,” Gray said. “On the defensive side they’re pretty athletic, so we just need to make sure we box out and stop them in transition.”

To keep their season goal of a home tournament game alive, South needs this win.