Lions dominate Gaels, 62-32

by Michelle Watson

Prior to the holiday break Clear Lake captured a lopsided win against St. Edmond on Friday, Dec. 20. The Lions dominated the Gaels (1-5) in a 62-32 victory.

“It’s always a tough place to play - in the ‘Fishtank” vs. St. Eds.  We came out and got some good looks early and took advantage of our size and athleticism to jump to an early lead in the first quarter,” said Coach Jeremey Ainley.

The Lions outscored the Gaels 20-7 in the first quarter.

Clear Lake got a little loose with the ball in the second quarter, allowing St. Edmond to get some baskets.  Clear Lake still outscored them, 16-13, and took a 36-20 lead into the break.

“In the third quarter we got after it again defensively and built the lead up to as many as 32-points,” said Ainley.

The Lions dominated the third quarter, outscoring the Gaels, 23-7.  The bench took over in the fourth quarter and contributed to the 62-32 victory.

The Clear Lake defense held St. Edmond to just 20 percent shooting.

Sophomore Carson Toebe had a stellar night, leading the team in a number of categories.  He had 24-points, aided by four three-point shots.  He also led the team in assists with five and in steals with four.  He ended the game with four rebounds.

Jaylen DeVries had another solid night, recording a double-double with 11-points and 10-rebounds.  He also had two assists and one steal.

Andrew Formanek contributed 12-points and eight rebounds, while fellow starter Kody Kearns chipped in six points, four rebounds and three blocked shots.

Eric Ritter provided a spark off the bench, as he picked up five points, five rebounds and two assists.

“Overall, I was really happy to play this well right before break.  We seem to be figuring things out.  It will be nice to have some rest over break and heal up a little, but we need to get our edge back after break, as the road ahead will be tough,” said Ainley.

The Lions are back in action on Friday, Jan. 3, when they host Algona in a 7:30 p.m. game.  The game should prove to be an exciting one, as both teams are undefeated in the North Central Conference.  Algona has a perfect record of 6-0, while Clear Lake has suffered one loss; that was to West Fork in the first game of the season.