Tyrone Lady Eagle’s basketball team fell short in the girls “backyard brawl” season opener against Bellwood Antis Blue Devils 65-47.

As expected, the game featured some very physical play with players on both sides committing fouls.

Ultimately however the more experienced Bellwood team beat the more youthful Tyrone squad.

“We played hard, it was a solid effort on both team’s part,” said head coach Lucas Rhoades, “Unfortunately there was a two minute stretch at the end of the first quarter that allowed them to get a big lead.”

Bellwood’s strong start put them up 17-6 at the end of the first quarter.

“We lacked confidence.  We were nervous, so we missed some easy shots early,” said junior Finnley Christine.

Tyrone did play some tough defense and was able to get back within ten midway through the third quarter, but Bellwood began to pull away in the fourth with strong outside shooting.

Bellwood drained seven three point shots in the contest.

“I think we played hard but we need to get more rebounds and loose balls. Also I think nerves got to us a little bit,” added sophomore Kasey Engle.

Bellwood’s Karson Swogger led all scorers with 24, while Anna Hollen had 12, Kelly Leamer had 11, and Selena Damiano played strong defense for the Lady Devils pulling down 12 rebounds.

Tyrone was led by sophomore Kasey Engle, who scored 21 for the Lady Eagles, five from the foul line and 16 from the field, including two three point shots.

Junior Finnely Christine added 18 points with three outside shots.  Lindsey Kemp and Alexis Cannistraci played strong defense for the Lady Eagles.

Coming into the contest, Bellwood had three games under its belt already this season and the experience showed.

“If we played them again in a few weeks there would definitely be a different outcome,” said Christine.

“I hope we meet them again in the district playoffs,” said Engle.

The Lady Eagles will be in action again tonight on the road versus Phillipsburg at 7:00 pm.