KINGSTON, Ont. (February 6, 2010) – In front of a jam packed crowd the St. Lawrence College (SLC) men’s basketball (14-2) knocked off the Fleming Knights (14-4) 86-73 Saturday afternoon.
Heading into the contest the Vikings sat two points behind the Knights for first place in the Ontario College Athletic Association (OCAA) East Division and was driven by retribution as they suffered their first loss of the season to these same Knights back in November.
In almost a mirror image of that game the home team got off to a strong start, getting the crowd behind them.
Adrian Tomlinson of Scarborough, Ont., collected 12 of his career high 33 points in the first half, giving the Vikings a 14 point lead heading into half.
The Vikings defense held strong throughout the first half, holding Fleming to only 27 points.
Ajahmo Clarke of Scarborough, Ont., also had a strong first half finishing with 18 of his 22 points.
The Vikings continued their defensive presence in the early stages of the second, pushing their lead up to 22 points mid-way through.
The Knights however, did not give up and on the shoulders of Mike Grant of Bowmanville, Ont., battled back. Grant finished with the teams only double-double, scoring a team high 17 points and 10 rebounds.
Fleming closed the gap to eight points with five minutes remaining, but the Vikings veteran leadership took over with
Remy Simpson producing key steals and rebounds both offensively and defensively.
Simpson finished with a double-double 11 points and 10 rebounds in his potentially final home game in a Vikings uniform. “Our defence gave us the chance to win tonight, and we came up with a huge performance.” stated Simpson.
SLC showed great poise and regained their double-digit lead which proved to be enough to claim victory and move into a tie for first in the East.
When asked how he felt about it potentially being his last home game Simpson was humble, responding as a true captain should.
“It hasn’t hit me yet, that it was my last home game, probably will realize it in a couple weeks. We still have four more games to play, and I plan on giving it my all every time I step out on that court.”
Head Coach
Barry Smith also agrees that although they have accomplished so much this season, there are still more games to be played.
“It’s hard to take one game at a time, but that’s what we have to do. These boys had this game in the back of their mind for three months now and wanted this game and it showed.”
The Vikings now go on the road to finish off the regular season, beginning Tuesday when they travel to face the Centennial Colts (4-12).
Following that game the Vikings head up to Oshawa, Ont., on Friday, February 12th to try and avenge their other loss of the season as they take on the Durham Lords (12-4).
The match-up next Friday could potentially seal the Eastern Pennant for the Vikings. Tip-off for next Friday’s game is scheduled for 8:00pm.