The Tuscarawas Valley Trojans lost against the Malvern Hornets back in January of 2023, and unfortunately they wound up with the same result on Friday. Tuscarawas Valley lost to Malvern at home by a decisive 59-44 margin. The loss unfortunately continues a disappointing trend for Tuscarawas Valley in their matchups with Malvern: they've now lost eight in a row.
Despite the loss, Tuscarawas Valley still got an impressive performance from John Leffler, who scored 18 points along with five rebounds and three blocks. That's the first time this season that Leffler posted two or more blocks. Cole Clements was another key contributor, scoring six points along with seven rebounds and two steals.
Tuscarawas Valley's loss dropped their record down to 3-7. As for Malvern, the victory for they keeps them at an undefeated 11-0.
Both teams will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Tuscarawas Valley will face off against Strasburg-Franklin at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Strasburg-Franklin and Tuscarawas Valley are at an even 5-5 over their past ten head-to-heads. As for Malvern, they will head out on the road to take on Minerva at 6:45 p.m. on Tuesday. Minerva is on a four-game streak of home wins, Malvern a 14-game streak of away wins (dating back to last season)-- so someone will have to leave a streak behind on the court.
