Friday, December 28

In the final match of the North Country Christmas Tournament, the Canaan Lady Eagles were able to come from behind to capture the tournament title for the fourth consecutive year, downing the Pittsburg Panthers 42-31. The win was not an easy one for Canaan, as the Panthers jumped ahead early with tight defense and timely offense. However, the Lady Eagles were able to pick up their defensive intensity in the second half and take control of the game late.

Pittsburg dominated the first quarter on both ends of the floor, doubling up the Lady Eagles 12-6 on the scoreboard. Canaan coach Eric Hurlbert stressed that his girls needed to play harder on defense, and it showed in the second quarter. The Canaan press troubled the Panthers, who saw their early lead quickly evaporate before halftime. The Panthers could manage a single point in the second frame, and the Lady Eagles were able to take a slim lead, 15-13, into the break.

With the defense playing tough, the Canaan offense began to execute. The Lady Eagles nearly doubled their first half output in the third quarter, scoring 13 points to Pittsburg's 6 to take a 28-19 lead heading into the final quarter. The Panthers would not surrender easily, cutting the Canaan lead to down to 4 points with a few minutes remaining in regulation. The Lady Eagles were able to maintain their composure and hit free throws down the stretch to prevent the Panthers from reclaiming the lead.

Paige Marchand was the high-scorer for the game, scoring 13 points in the win. Danielle Harris added 9, while Annick Marquis and Miranda Havalotti contributed 7 and 6 respectively.

The win not only secured the Christmas Tournament championship for the Lady Eagles, but lifted their overall record to 5-3 heading into the annual Cabot Tournament.