Lady Chargers win two district games
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| Middlesex guard Grace Rutkowski drives past a Rappahannock defender in a recent loss to the Raiders. (Photo by Tom Chillemi) |
by Tom Chilemi
The Middlesex Lady Chargers posted Tidewater District wins over King William and King and Queen in recent action.
The Lady Chargers defeated visiting King William 49-34 in their first district game of the season on January 5.
The Chargers were on a five-game losing streak and looking for a fresh start to the new year when King William invaded the MHS gym. The Lady Chargers (2-0, 3-7) also welcomed back Megan Payne to the lineup for the first time this season. Payne has been out of action with a severe ankle sprain.
The Lady Chargers got off to a fast start against the Lady Cavaliers and never looked back in the 49-34 district win. “We are finally whole for the first time this season,” said MHS coach Neil Wake. “The experience that was gained by everyone should be a big help in district play.”
Against King William, freshman Grace Rutkowski led MHS with 11 points and 6 rebounds, while M. Payne had 10 points and 9 rebounds.
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| Middlesex forward Brittin Payne fires up a shot in a recent loss to Rappahannock. (Photo by Tom Chillemi) |
Bridgette Self was good for 7 points and 7 rebounds; Felicia Marsh added 5 points; Jessica Dixon, Brittin Payne and Lara Lucas each tallied 4 points; and Joey Stinchcomb and Nila Robinson added 2 points apiece.
The Lady Chargers traveled to King And Queen on Monday and came away with a 73-10 wire-to-wire victory.The Lady Tigers only had only six players dressed for the game but fought hard the whole way, said Wake.
“We were very focused and tried to avoid letdowns,” said Wake.
The sting of a losing streak is still fresh in Wake’s memory. “Each night is an audition for us and we must continue to improve if we are going to accomplish our ultimate goal.”
Against King and Queen, Megan Payne stole the show with 23 points and 10 rebounds; Bridgette Self had 11 points and 10 assists; and Grace Rutkowski added 7 points.
Heather Blankenship and Jessica Dixon added 6 points apiece; and Felicia Marsh, Brittin Payne, Lara Lucas, Nila Robinson and Joey Stinchcomb each had 4 points.
The Lady Chargers will host district rival Mathews on Thursday, January 12. On Tuesday, January 17, the Lady Chargers will travel to Lancaster. On Wednesday, January 18, they will host Northumberland.
JV games begin at 6 p.m. and are followed by varsity games at 7:30 p.m.
