By JEREMY McGUIRE

Girls:  TMP 71, Stockton 48

TMP used a 14-2 run to end the first quarter to take control of Friday night’s Mid Continent League Tournament semi-final match up with Stockton.  The Lady Monarchs had a 25-12 lead at that point and increased it to 39-19 at halftime.  Senior Melissa Pfeifer had a big first half for TMP with 12 points.

TMP continued to roll in the second half both offensively and defensively.  TMP led by 31 points early in the fourth quarter which triggered a continuous clock.  Stockton made a late charge but it was to little, to late for the Lady Tigers as TMP picked up the 71-48 win.

Haven Hamilton led Stockton with 13 points and Madyson Koerner scored 16 to lead TMP.  Stockton will play Phillipsburg in the third place game Saturday afternoon in Plainville.  TMP has set up a much anticipated re-match with Hill City for the championship on Saturday night.

ROSE MCFARLAND INTERVIEW

GAME HIGHLIGHTS

Boys:  TMP 55, Hill City 28

TMP used an incredible defensive performance against Hill City in Friday night’s semi-final round of the MCL Tournament in Plainville.  The Monarchs held the Ringnecks to only 11 first half points and just 28 points for the entire game.  The defensive effort was evident for all 32 minutes and Ryan Ruder spearheaded the effort by drawing five charges in the game.

TMP led 10-4 after the first quarter and extended the lead to 22-11 at halftime.  The second half did not improve for Hill City as TMP was able to extend their lead to as many as 28 points in the fourth quarter with the Monarchs eventually coming out on top 55-28.  TMP held Hill City’s leading scorer, Claiborne Kyles, to only 12 points for the game and the only Ringneck in double figures.

Jared Vitztum led the offensive charge tonight for TMP with 25 points.  The win was the ninth straight for the Monarchs.  Hill City will play Plainville in the third place game on Saturday while TMP will get the Norton Bluejays in the championship game.

JOE HERTEL INTERVIEW

GAME HIGHLIGHTS