Six Monarchs fall to Owls with lack of season starters

The Monarchs men’s basketball team struggles to stand after 69-84 defeat under the Citrus College Owls.

By Andres Sanchez, Staff Writer

Monarchs guard Max Ralph shoots for a two pointer next to Citrus’ Jayden Johnston during the 27th game of the western state conference at Valley College on Wednesday Feb. 8. (Photo by Xavier Dubon | The Valley Star)

Men's basketball fought hard in the first half despite the lack of their season starters, finishing off last Wednesday's game with (84-69), due to the flu and injuries.

The six Monarchs (9-17) in attendance scored 69 points while missing its key starters. The Owls (23-3) now, offensively dominated the court taking advantage of the Monarchs limited players. Missing guards included, sophomores Manny Kapoushian, David Huggins and freshman Nikko Rodriguez were absent due to the flu and injuries at previous games. The three players are some of the team's most notable players with highest play time and point averages. With Kaposhian averaging 9.5 a game, Rodriguez 10.2 and Huggins at 11.2, a game could have been leveled.

“We had a flu go through the team, and two starters were injured at Bakersfield,” explained head coach Virgil Watson. “I am proud of the team; they really showed their character. We are going to try, and the kids will keep pushing to figure out how to manufacture a physical win.”

The Monarchs rallied a score of 31-40 in the first half demonstrating a discernible defense while lacking their notable starters. Within the first 10 minutes of the second half Citrus led by 18 points making the score 39-57. Valley Guard, Khalil Forrester, scored the team 27 points, with Andre Parris scoring 15 pts to push Owls defenses against the odds.

With Parris and Forrester advancing the team through the Owls defenses, they were unable to clip their wings.

“We were against a great team in the conference, but we were willing to fight, and went out for a win,” Forrester said, “We will do whatever it takes to win.”

In midst of absences, the Monarch’s offensive strategy delivered 69 points to the scoreboard and delayed the Owls, who will be second guessing what a full team of players can bring in their next game.