DECATUR — The Bulldogs defeated the Mountainburg Dragons 47-42 on Friday for their 11th straight win.
The victory secured the 2A-4 conference championship for Decatur as well as a first seed position in the district tournament and an automatic berth in the regional tournament.
Coach John Unger said both teams played well and were evenly matched during Friday’s game. Decatur did a good job of matching Mountainburg’s strength and intensity, he said.
Decatur jumped ahead of Mountainburg 11-7 in the first quarter, but the Dragons caught up and were one point ahead at halftime. The Bulldogs outscored them 24-18 in the second half for a victory.
Sophomore Mario Urquidi, Senior Andrew Harris and Senior Avery Clay did a good job of rebounding and playing interior defense, Unger said.
Dakota Pitcher made three 3-point shots, opening things up for the Bulldogs, he said.
Mario Urquidi led the Bulldogs scoring with 16 points and 16 rebounds, followed by Harris with 13 points, five rebounds.
“Victor (Urquidi) didn’t score many, but his presence helps us. He’s (physically) tough and mentally tough,” Unger said.
The Bulldogs will face the Eureka Springs Highlanders after press time on Tuesday night and the West Side Rebels on Friday for their last two conference games of the season.
The district tournament will be held in Mountainburg the week of Feb. 11-16.
Sports, Pages 9 on 02/06/2013