Ponies Have Winning Week

The Monticello Ponies girls basketball team had a very busy week, coming away with three wins and one loss.
On February 11th, they hosted Benton. After leading 36-29 at the half, Monticello went on to win it. The final score was Monticello 67, Benton 46.
“It was a high scoring first half with both teams getting hot from the outside at times. Alyssen Noriega played one of her most complete games of the season. The girls all contributed to the victory. Lindsey Pence provided a defensive spark and hit double figures for the second time in the last 3 games,” said Coach Mark Gustafson. “It was an all-around team effort and one of the best games for the Ponies this season.”
Leading the Ponies with 22 points was Alyssen Noriega, while Mackie Errthum scored 15 points and Lindsey Pence scored 10 points.
On February 13th, the team played at Argyle, losing 54-60 after holding a 2 point halftime lead.
“Argyle forced a few turnovers down the stretch and made their free throws,” said Coach Gustafson. “We lost by 25 to them the first time around, so we were able to hang with them for the entire game.”
Alyssen Noreiga led the team with 12 points, while Mackie Errthum scored 11 points and Harley Disch put 10 points on the board.
On February 15th, the Ponies played at Juda. Ahead by 23 points at the half, Monticello easily won the game. Final score: Monticello 68, Juda 27.
“Our defense limited Juda to 11 points in the first half and we forced quite a few turnovers,” said Coach Gustafson. “Alyssen Noriega was not only scoring, but she was also creating plays for her teammates. A great team effort.”
Noreiga led the Ponies with 22 points, while Mackie Errthum scored 12 points and Claire Klossner scored 8 points.
On February 16th, Monticello played their last regular season home game against Albany. The Ponies led at the half, 33-24, and outscored the Comets in the second half to win the game. The final score was Monticello 63, Albany 43.
“It was an emotional day as we celebrated our seniors before the game,” said Coach Gustafson. “This was our most complete game of the year. Albany had beaten us by 25 points earlier in the season, so we needed to get contributions from all of our girls. Four girls scored in the double digits for us. Claire Klossner played great interior defense and Lindsey Pence continued to play great defense up and down the court. Another great team effort by the ladies.”
Alyssen Noriega scored 18 points to lead the team, while Mackie Errthum scored 13 points and Lindsey Pence and Abby Wicker each scored 11 points.
On February 19th, the #7 seeded Ponies hosted #10 Johnson Creek. The winner will play the winner of the #15 Wisconsin School for the Deaf vs #2 Randolph game on Friday, February 22nd.