Lady Wolfpack Clamp Down Late to Defeat Wakefield in Defensive Showdown
Launch the media gallery 1 playerLady Wolfpack Clamp Down Late to Defeat Wakefield in Defensive Showdown
The Tri County Northeast Lady Wolfpack leaned on tough defense and timely scoring Monday night to earn a 46–42 non-conference victory over the rival Wakefield Lady Trojans.
The two teams were deadlocked early, playing to a 14–14 tie after the opening quarter. Wakefield edged ahead in the second period, outscoring TCNE 13–9 to take a narrow 27–23 lead into halftime.
Coming out of the break, the Lady Pack turned the momentum in their favor. TCNE’s defense limited the Trojans to just eight points in the third quarter, while the Wolfpack posted 17 to surge ahead. That stretch proved decisive, as Tri County Northeast carried its advantage into the fourth and held on for the four-point win.
Junior Briley Anderson led the Wolfpack with 15 points, shooting 6-of-10 from the field and adding nine rebounds, three steals, and a blocked shot in a strong all-around performance.
Fellow junior Emily Mitchell contributed 11 points while connecting on five field goals and pulling down four rebounds. Joslyn Mackling added 13 points, four rebounds, and three steals, helping spark TCNE on both ends of the floor.
Aubrey Mitchell provided steady play off the bench with five assists and three rebounds, while Samantha Rastede and Maddie Franzluebbers chipped in with hustle plays and key minutes.
As a team, the Lady Wolfpack shot 39 percent from the field and controlled the glass with a 27–23 rebounding edge. TCNE also forced 19 turnovers and recorded 11 steals, showcasing their defensive intensity throughout the contest.
The Wolfpack’s ability to limit Wakefield in the second half, combined with balanced scoring and strong rebounding, proved to be the difference in the rivalry matchup.
With the win, Tri County Northeast continues to build momentum as the regular season progresses on. The Lady Wolfpack will look to carry Monday’s defensive effort and team-first play into their last regular season game on Saturday February 14th at Omaha Nation and then post season play next week.