Make that another instant classic as Central rallied from down 16 in the second quarter, down nine with under six minutes in the fourth and down four in the final minute to stun No. 1 Charlestown in overtime, 74-63.
Central’s student section rocked, once again. Looked like the smooth Townies would shoot the Raiders right back down Route 28 early, but Central showed a ton of guts and rallied around Carson Desrosiers and Billy Marsden, who scored 30.
Just an outstanding event overall. Congrats to Central and coach Rick Nault, who just kept tweaking and tweaking until he got it right with his lineup.
Talk about a great night. Hit Kitty’s Restaurant for dinner, then headed to Reading High, which I found accidentally, then enjoyed a great battle.
Well-played, well-run, well-officiated game.
There was one gripe. One older gentleman behind me, who walked in midway through the second quarter, was not happy. Coming from metro Boston, he went all the way to Lawrence, where the game was originally slated.
I suggested he read this blog.
As a fan, I’ll be at Lowell-Everett tonight, actually rooting in my heart a bit for the Red Raiders. After the way, Lowell, the school administration, has treated coach Scott Boyle, stripping him of the football job before last season, I want to see him do well. He’s a good coach who cares about his kids, the students and the program.
I like to see him win and stick it to the guys who’ve been looking to oust him.
Can’t wait for Saturday at the Tsongas Arena.
Remember, the three NH entrants in the region, Salem, Londonderry and Pinkerton, host opening rounders Thursday night.
See you all in the stands.
