| Samantha Madrid looks for help as she’s covered by an Escalante defender. The Vikings competed in their final game of the year Tuesday night as they faced the Escalante Moquis in a playoff crossover game. The team entered the match up in hopes of advancing to the state tourney, but the 49-36 loss put these dreams to rest. |
As the East Carbon girls basketball team awaited the arrival of the officials, the Vikings warmed up on the court with smiles blazing across their faces. The laughter was uplifting as the team prepared for their biggest game of the year.
With playoff hopes on the line, the Vikings were pressured into a do-or-die situation as they hosted the Escalante Moquis. The winner of the match up would advance to the Class 1A state tournament which will take place Thursday through Saturday in Provo.
After an hour of waiting and warming up, the men in the black and white striped uniforms were ready to kick off the game. At this point, the laughter had turned into determination.
The game started out intense as both teams battled for control of the scoreboard. The Vikes matched the Moquis point for point in the opening quarter. By the end of the first eight minutes of play, the Vikes lead Escalante, 13-11.
As the second quarter got underway, the Vikings lost control of the game and found themselves down by five at the half.
At this point, the laughter had turned into frustration and it was the point in the match up where the Vikings would find themselves in a slump which they were never able to overcome.
The second half played out much like the second quarter did, with the Vikings struggling to make things happen.
By the end of the fourth quarter, the Vikings had completed their final game of the season for they were knocked out of the state tourney by the final, 49-36.
Chelsey Timothy completed here final game with the Vikings with 17 points to lead the team. Timothy along with Brittnie Leonard, Joyce Clark and Misty Valdez will each be lost this spring to graduation.
Although they will leave the school, their contribution to this year’s strong East Carbon team will remain in the minds of all Viking fans.
The season may be over for the Vikings, but the memories of a successful season will live on.