The Abilene Cowgirls basketball team played the Clay Center Tigers on Friday, January 11th. The girls started the game down 4-0, but then held the opponents from scoring in the second quarter, ending it with a score of 8-4. The girls battled back and forth during the third, ending the quarter tied 16-16. The cowgirls were able to gain the lead during the fourth quarter to secure another win. The game ended with a score of 30-21.

“The team did a great job of staying mentally tough. Our defense was outstanding, and we also out rebounded our opponent.” stated Coach Molly Burton. According to Coach Burton, the team did struggle shooting in the first half, and had some turnovers from trying to force the passes inside.

A turning point for the team was when Junior Jade Vopat stole the ball and made a lay up. “It gave the team extra motivation.” explained teammate Beth Holmes.

Beth Holmes, a junior, stated that the team knew their opponent was going to be tough, but everyone was still excited to go against someone with the same level of intensity as the Cowgirls.

The student section seemed to play a significant role in the game. “It was nice having them there to hype everyone up and make the atmosphere so much more intense. The support we felt from them was awesome.” stated Beth.

“We know that a loss is a loss and it will come sometime. If we keep playing at the level we are at, we’re going to be okay.” – Beth Holmes