McGann-Mercy was riding a four-game winning streak coming into the playoffs. They were even awarded a home game in the first round of the playoffs for their efforts down the stretch. Things were looking up for the Monarchs who snapped out of a funk during the midpoint of the season.
That is, until Center Moriches came to town for the first round of the Suffolk County Class B playoffs this afternoon.
The third-seeded Red Devils just came out hot and stayed hot for the duration, leading from start to finish. They eventually knocked out No. 2 McGann-Mercy, 46-35.
Melina Santacroce and Mia Behrens did what they could to keep the Monarchs in the game, combining for 20 points, but it just wasn’t enough.
The Red Devils defensive intensity and physicality caused havoc for Mercy’s young squad and turnovers were prevalent early and often. Center Moriches led 19-6 at the end of the first quarter.
To their credit, Mercy did play much better the final three quarters, outscoring Center Moriches, 29-27. But that first quarter was just too much to come back from.
Caroline Casey of Center Moriches led all scorers with 16 points.
With the win, the Red Devils will take on first-seeded Mattituck on Tuesday at Riverhead High School. Tip off will be at 5:30 and there will be a $6 admission.
RiverheadLOCAL photos by Courtney Blasl
