The Manzano Monarchs's recent rough patch got a bit rougher on Wednesday after their third straight loss. They took a 73-60 hit to the loss column at the hands of Valley. The defeat unfortunately continues a disappointing trend for Manzano in their matchups with Valley: they've now lost six in a row.
Manzano's loss came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Zaria Gomez, who scored 24 points along with six rebounds and five assists. Those five assists set a new season-high mark for her. Mattie Espinosa was another key contributor, scoring 16 points along with six rebounds.
Even though they lost, Manzano were smashing the offensive glass and finished the game with 17 offensive rebounds. They easily outclassed their opponents in that department as Valley only pulled down four offensive rebounds.
Valley can attribute much of their success to Giana Roybal, who scored 23 points along with five assists and three steals. The match was Roybal's third in a row with at least ten points. The team also got some help courtesy of Tayton Gomez, who scored 15 points.
Manzano's loss dropped their record down to 2-5. As for Valley, the victory makes it two in a row for them and bumps their season record up to 2-3.
Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Manzano will be home for the holidays to greet West Mesa at 6:00 p.m. on Friday. Hopefully West Mesa focused on turnovers this week since the team gave up 17 on Tuesday. As for Valley, they will stay at home for another game and welcome La Cueva at 7:00 p.m. on December 15th. Hopefully La Cueva focused on turnovers this week since the team gave up 25 on Tuesday.
