By BEN KLEINE

Staff writer

The Hillsboro High School girls basketball team defeated Marion, 52-21, Tuesday.

The Trojans were led by Tena Loewen who recorded 11 points and 8 rebounds. All of Loewen’s points were scored on shots within five feet of the basket. To set the tone for Hillsboro, she scored the first basket of the game driving straight at Marion shot blocker Whitney Gordon.

Allie Faul was the next highest scorer for the Trojans with 11. Her offense was more diverse with running floaters in the lane, moving 15-foot jump shots around the key, and the Trojans only 3-point basket of the night.

However, Faul’s true impact was felt at the defensive end of the floor. Faul and Becky Faber each had 4 steals for Hillsboro. On two occasions, Faul bodied a Marion ball handler, and as they were about to dribble, twisted around the Marion guard, and stole the ball with both hands in stride to start Hillsboro fast breaks.

In general, the Trojan defense was smothering. Hillsboro defenders played full court man-to-man defense all game, keeping their Marion counterparts on their hips throughout the contest. Hillsboro forced 30 turnovers and nabbed 18 steals. The Trojans were also adept at playing stout defense off the ball, denying passing lanes to their opponents.

Gordon was held to 4 points in the first quarter. She was setting up in the post and seemed poised for a breakout offensive game until Loewen discovered the best way to guard the 6-foot-2 junior was to not let her get the ball.

Gordon scored 6 points in the game to lead Warrior scorers. She was shut out during the second and third quarters, finally getting back on the score sheet in the fourth quarter.

Katey Ehrlich and Megan Richmond each scored 4 points for the Warriors, who shot 21.9 percent for the game, 16.7 percent in the second half.

In an area where the Warriors usually shine, Hillsboro outrebounded Marion 34 to 21. The Trojans secured 18 offensive rebounds and held Gordon to 4 total rebounds.

Hillsboro shot 43.1 percent from the field with nine Trojans recording points.

The Lady Trojans will meet Halstead on Jan. 4 in an away game.