Moose Corral the Mustangs in OT

(Augusta, ME) The historic matchup between UMA and CMCC felt a bit different going into the game on Tuesday, November 28. Both teams, favored in the preseason polls, to be near the top of the YSCC, found themselves facing off against one another for their first conference win of the season. In front of a great Augusta Civic Center crowd, the Moose and Mustangs tipped off in what became a true YSCC battle. The Mustangs came out kicking, scoring the first 5 points of the game, and pressured the outside arc, knowing that was strong stomping grounds for the Moose. Isaiah Searles took advantage and drew the first foul of the game, driving to the hoop and putting the defense on their heels. Yonas Medfu, one of the YSCC's best outside shooters, also found success driving the lane, proving quickly there was much more to the Moose offense. The Mustang's quick 5 points to start the half would be the largest point differnce in the entire first half ending with the Moose on top with a score of 30-26 as both teams headed to the locker room which had more of the feel of two top heavy weight fighters going to their corner at the sound of the bell. There was no backing down in the second half, as both teams would come out strong. The Mustungs were able to keep up the pace just enough to keep the score close, but were never able to leap over the Moose for the lead until Jackson Birmingham hit a free throw after getting fouled on a successful layup attempt, giving CMCC a one point lead with just 00:21 on the game clock. Burk Evduzen, fouled going to the rim, would go 1 for 2 from the stripe, just enough to end the second half with a 7 to 1 Mustang run and end regulation in a 68-68 tie.

The Mustangs were quick to jump out in OT with a quick shot from Jackson Birmingham, but the Moose were not ready to go down. Trevor Beals would ignite the Civic Center with an offensive rebound and put back layup while getting fouled on the play. Beals would regain the lead for the Moose with his made attempt. The spark was enough to lead the Moose outscoring their rival 15 to 4 in OT and capturing the 83-72 win.

The Moose were led by Yonas Medfu, (25pts - 2 reb - 2 assts), Trevor Beals, (21pts - 14 reb - 4 assts), and Isaiah Searles (15pts - 18 reb - 2 assts).

Next Game: UMA vs Vermont State University Randolph Saturday, December 2, 2pm @ CMCC