Minneola Drops Tournament Opener to South Haven

Emporia, Kan. (westernkansasnews.com)–Despite scoring a combined 16 points in the second and third quarters, the Minneola Wildcats had their chances against the South Haven Cardinals. The Cardinals 14-8 third quarter run ended up being the difference, as they rallied to knock of the Wildcats 54-48 in the state quarterfinal game in Class 1A, Division I.

After trailing 13-12 after the first period, Minneola would take a 20-17 halftime lead, as both teams would struggle from the field. That would hold up heading into the fourth quarter, as South Haven would lead by three at 31-28. Both teams would heat up in the final eight minutes, but the Cardinals would hold a 23-20 edge to win by the six-point margin at 54-48. The Cardinals shot 31% for the game from the field, while the Wildcats were 37%. South Haven (22-2) finished with three players in double figure scoring, led by Austin Showman with 21 points, while Bryce Byers had 12 and Hunter Ray chipped in 10. Minneola (15-7) saw Matt McClaren and Gary Stewart lead the way with 14 points each.

South Haven advances to Friday’s semi-final game with Stockton, who surprised Hoxie 58-42. St. John took care of Burrton 68-44 and Centralia held off Olpe 59-54 in the other quarterfinal games.