Bulldogs on a roll, with seven straight

— The Bulldogs won Friday’s home conference game against the Johnson County Westside Rebels 57-42.

The victory improves the Bulldog’s record to 14-5 overall and 7-1 in conference play.

The game was a big win for Decatur, putting the team at the top of the conference half way through the season and setting the tone for the basketball program, according to head coach and athletic director John Unger.

The first half of the game was a close battle between the Bulldogs and the Rebels. The two teams were tied 13-13 in the first quarter. Decatur was able to end the second quarter one point ahead, with a score of 27-26.

During half-time, Unger said he talked to the players in the locker room and told them to go out and score six points on a run to give the team some space. That is exactly what they did.

In the second half,the Bulldogs managed to score 30 more points and hold the Rebels to 16 points for a victory.

Sophomore Mario Urquidi led the scoring for Decatur with 16 points and 10 rebounds, followed by his twin brother Victor Urquidi with 10 points.

“It was a big night for him,” Unger said. “That’s what we expect every night.”

Senior Dakota Pitcher also had a great night, scoring nine points with three 3-point shots, Unger said.

Decatur v. Magazine

The Bulldogs defeated the Leftwich (Magazine) Rattlers 50-40 on Jan. 15.

“Anytime we win on the road in conference, it’s a good thing to keep that confidence up,” said Unger.

The Bulldogs got off to a sluggish start after the long bus ride but were still able to manage a 25-20 lead at half-time.

Sophomore brothers Mario and Victor Urquidi led the scoring for Decatur with 13 points each, followed by senior Andrew Harris with 10 points. Senior Avery Clay and Mario Urquidi each made six rebounds.

“I thought Victor really led us with energy and speed. It’s good to have a quarterback on the floor to be a vocal leader,” Unger said.

The defense did a good job of putting on full-court pressure and making it hard for the Rattlers to score, Unger said.

Magazine wasn’t able to get in many shots and most of their points came from free throws, he said.

“The team is gaining confidence after seven conference wins in a row. They play for each other and they play to win,” Unger said.

This week the Bulldogs will face the Union Christian Academy Eagles in Fort Smith after press time on Tuesday and the Hartford Hustlers for their Colors Day game on Friday. Coronation ceremonies will begin at 5:30 p.m., followed by the girls’ and boys’ games at 6 p.m.

Sports, Pages 11 on 01/23/2013