Keys to the Game: Ichabod Crane vs. Glens Falls
It's not a surprise that the Ichabod Crane Riders are entering the game against the Glens Falls Indians as heavy underdogs. The #4 seeded Riders (18-4), led by senior Peter Volkmann, have a tough task in taking on the undefeated #1 seeded Indians (21-0), led by sophomore Joseph Girard III.
One major key to end the undefeated season of the Indians is stopping the leading scorer, Girard. This task won't be easy, however, as Girard is a top scorer in section 2 basketball, averaging just over 36 points a game this season. If they can force him to shoot tough, contested shots, and keep him off the free throw line (87% free throw percentage this season) they should be able to hang around and take advantage of his poor play.
Another thing the Riders need to do is push the break. In the games I have seen of Glens Falls, they like to slow the game down and take there time getting back on defense. One major strength for the Riders is pushing the break. They are very good when it comes to deciding if they should push the pace, or slow the game down and run there offense. If the Riders can keep the tempo up and outscore the Indians in fast break points, then they should manage to escape with the win.
One last thing the Riders need to do to escape this game and advance to the sectional finals is rebound. Joey Werner will play a big role in that part of the game for the Riders. He is a rebound machine down low, and is not afraid to get psychical. Starting center Brad Kittle will also play a major factor in the rebounding game for the Riders. A key player to watch off the bench is Matt Ragosta. Coach Ferguson doesn't use his bench very often in games, with him usually only using 2-3 bench players a game, but Matt is a constant figure in games. He is the sixth man for the Riders, and rightfully so. He fights for rebounds down low, even though he is under sized. He, like Joe, is not afraid to get physical when it comes to rebounding.
While the Glens Falls Indians have everything on the line, the Riders don't. All the pressure is on Girard and the Indians. They're the heavy favorites to win the game, and they're putting their undefeated season on the line. Ichabod, on the other hand, are the underdogs. Everyone is picking against them. They should be pissed off, annoyed with how quickly people are writing them off, just assuming the Girard led Indians will mop the floor with them. With the month of March on the horizon, however, it only makes sense for the underdogs to come out on top.
