On Wednesday, Dec. 7, the Bel Air Men’s Basketball Team took on the Eagles of Aberdeen High School in a thriller in the Bobcat gymnasium.

Coming into the first game of the season, the Bobcats were looking to start off with a win against a strong, but beatable, opponent in Aberdeen. The Eagles jumped out to an early 11-3 lead, capitalizing on defensive mistakes and hitting difficult shots. However, the Bobcats refused to lie down, charging back to tie the game at 14. Leading the defensive surge for Bel Air was senior Jamario Sampson and senior Finn Gottschalk, grabbing rebounds and blocking shots which kept the Cats in the game. Just before the half, Aberdeen scored six quick points and cushioned their lead to 25-17 at halftime

In the second half, senior Daniel Webber inspired the Bobcats with his hustle plays and incredible emotion as the game intensified. Bel Air led by four in the third quarter and began to pick up momentum. Midway through the quarter, Webber picked up a controversial technical foul after he voiced his disagreements to the referee about a very questionable call in regard to an intentional foul. After an admitted refereeing mistake, Aberdeen was gifted six points and the momentum swung into the wings of the Eagles. After the final horn sounded, the Bobcats fell to the Eagles, 67-57.

“This game is definitely something to build on. We started off timid but once we settled down we gained more confidence as the game went on.” Says Coach Alex Darko. “We had a lot of good looks/shots that just didn’t fall. Unfortunately, we lost our composure in the fourth quarter.  We did, however, see a lot of positive things overall and we now know we can play with anyone.”

Despite losing the game, the Bobcats played a great game, limiting turnovers and dominating the rebound category. There were plenty of positives to take away from Wednesday night’s game and the Bobcats will have one day to practice, and correct any mistakes, before hitting the floor again on Friday night against Joppatowne.

Come out this Friday, Dec. 9, to watch your Bobcats take on the Mariners at home at 6:45 p.m. This should be a very compelling game between two very strong teams looking for a win. Show out in your blue and white and tell a friend to bring a friend!