Firth beats West Jefferson and continues in District Playoff

FIRTH – Firth loses to Ririe on Wednesday, February 16, but wins Saturday night, February 19, against West Jefferson to advance in the district playoff.

When Firth walked into Ririe’s gym last Wednesday night, many in the crowd hoped that the third time would be the charm (Firth having lost twice to the Bulldogs during the season), but there is no such thing as charm, nor is there luck.   All that exists is 24 minutes of hardwood basketball with hopefully proficient shooting, good defense, and good ball control. 

Firth had most of that during their game, except for proficient shooting, hitting only 22 percent.  Most of that came in the first half when Firth fell behind 10 points.

In the third quarter, the Cougars narrowed the gap to 6, after falling behind by 15.  But in the end, Firth could not overcome the deficit losing to the Bulldogs 46 to 37.  

The Cougars then played the West Jefferson Panthers Saturday night at home for the fourth time this season.  Although the Cougars have beaten the Panthers three times, West Jefferson was a worthy opponent keeping the score close.  

The Cougars led most of the second half against the Panthers.  The score was relatively close until the fourth quarter, when the Panthers began to foul.  Firth shot well from the free-throw line, which allowed them to prevail against the Panthers 41 to 32. 

The Cougars now travel back to Ririe to play the Bulldogs again Tuesday, February 22, at 7 p.m.