While the Gretna East Griffins couldn't quite beat the Columbus Discoverers on Thursday, the two-point margin was a huge improvement compared to the 34-point loss they were dealt last Saturday. Gretna East fell just short of Columbus by a score of 51-49. Gretna East has now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.
Gretna East's defeat came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Drew Rhoades, who scored 18 points along with two steals. As a matter of fact, that's the most points Rhoades has scored all season. Another player making a difference was Talan Hovie, who scored 13 points along with seven rebounds and five assists.
Tanner Esch was on fire for Columbus: he scored 17 points along with seven rebounds and two steals. Esch continues to roll, besting his previous point total in each of the last three games he's played. Preston Hastreiter was another key contributor, dropping a double-double on 11 points and 11 rebounds.
Gretna East has not been sharp recently, as they've lost four of their last five games, which put a noticeable dent in their 4-9 record this season. As for Columbus, the victory makes it two in a row for them and bumps their season record up to 3-12.
Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Gretna East will take on Westview at 7:15 p.m. on Friday. Hopefully Westview focused on turnovers this week since the team gave up nine last Saturday. As for Columbus, they the luxury of staying home another game and will welcome Lincoln High at 7:15 p.m. on January 26th.
