Three point shot by Ryan's Annie Cashman - photo by Jackie Schaeffer
PHILADELPHIA – The Archbishop Ryan Ragdolls improved their record to 11-0 with a 58-44 win over the St. Hubert’s Bambies in a well anticipated Catholic League rivalry matchup.
The game was played in the larger boy’s gymnasium to accommodate the expected crowd - and it was needed. The first quarter ended tied at 15 with Ryan in foul trouble. The Ragdolls made adjustments and nobody fouled out on the Ryan bench, however, Emily Holmes fouled out for St. Huberts in the physical match-up.
This game was bigger than most for junior Caela Russell who transferred to Ryan from Huberts this year.
“Being 11-0 is such an indescribable feeling,” Caela Russell said. “Every team we play is very competitive, so when we play hard, win and add another W to our undefeated record, it's so amazing”
The leading scorer for Ryan was Annie Cashman who totaled 17 points, 3 steals and 5 rebounds.
“I knew it was going to be tough because it is every year,” Cashman said. “I wanted to make sure the hype of the game didn't affect how we play, because I knew if we played like we have been we would be fine. It was ugly, but a win's a win and I'm happy we were able to work together and get it done.”
The game was still close at half, with Ryan up by one, 28-27. Big plays by Danielle McCurdy helped widen the gap in the second half. McCurdy ended the game with 10 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals and 3 blocks.
Ryan’s excellent three point shooting - including 5 by Cashman, 3 by McLaughlin and 3 by Amanda Lawson - was the difference in the game.
Next up for Ryan is this weekend’s Hoops for Hope Tournament at the University of the Sciences and then Tuesday’s game at Little Flower.
Amanda Lawson said, “We are going to go in with the same mentality to play hard and know that if we keep playing the way we are, good results will come.”
St. Hubert’s will look to rebound against West Catholic in their next league game on Tuesday, Jan. 10th.