By Cody Marshall, Sultan of Sports

GALWAY–Since Coach Toby Youngblood took over the varsity basketball program, the Galway Golden Eagles have struggled to put wins in the column. A combined 4-32 in two years, the Golden Eagles have been trying to find a way to win at least three games in a single season, coming up short year after year. The 2012 WAC Crossover games began yesterday and Galway was pitted against WAC South opponent Duanesburg. For seniors Cody Marshall and Jamie Freebern, the agony of losing to Duanesburg four times (three of them by 5 point or less) needed to end.

Galway entered the contest as the 7th place finisher in the North, while Duanesburg finished 6th in the South. Galway looked strong out the gate as Cody Marshall, Jamie Freebern, and Evan Ceroalo got into the scoring column early–giving the Eagles a 10-2 early lead. However, the Eagles of Duanesburg went on an 13-0 run to go up 15-10 at the end of the first quarter. The second quarter provided a huge turnaround for the Golden Eagles. Holding Duanesburg to just 9 points, Galway poured in 14 of their own, with Cody Marshall’s layup just before half giving the Golden Eagles a 29-25 halftime lead.

The second half really showed how strong the Golden Eagles defense was. Galway held Duanesburg to 17 total points in the second half, while dropping an extra 25 in order to seal the win. All season long, Duanesburg relied on their three point shooting to win games. Sean McGarny and Dustin Thomas have had their way with Galway in the first two meetings between these teams. In game one, the pair combined for 30 points, including 6 threes. In game 2, the pair scored 25, including 5 three pointers. However, in this meeting they were held to a combined 12 points and just 3 three pointers.

Meanwhile, Galway had contributions from all over the floor. Cody Marshall led the team with 19 points, including 12 in the first half. Jamie Freebern added 13 of his own to the winning effort. Nick Manna, Shane Marshall, Evan Ceroalo, and Dan Diaz each had 5 points, combining for 20 on the night.

Galway wraps up their 2012 season on Monday when they travel to St. Johnsville for their third meeting this year with the Saints. In game one, Galway won 46-45, while the Saints took game two 58-56. Even though it’s a long trip, fans should still go to cheer on the Golden Eagles, as it will be the last game of the four seniors basketball careers.