"We shoot 75 percent from the line, and it's a different game," Bishop Eustace coach Bob Falconiero said.
Still, the Crusaders were right there with the Iron Mikes (11-3), the No. 6 team in the Newark Star Ledger's state rankings. Trenton Catholic was led by smooth 6-6 freshman Malachi Richardson, a future high Division I recruit who scored 23.
Bishop Eustace was trailing, 51-50, with 1 minute, 31 seconds on the clock when the Crusaders were hit with a personal foul and a technical foul. Richardson made four free throws, and the Iron Mikes scored on the ensuing possession to break open the game.
The loss was tough for Bishop Eustace to take. But there was value in the game, especially in the level of competition and the way in which Crusaders responded to every Iron Mikes' run until the clock ran out.
"I thought we showed well," Puriefoy said. "This wasn't a championship game. This was a midseason test, and we played well against a great opponent. This can only help us."
Vikings surge. No. 2 Eastern (13-1) has won three in a row since its lone loss.
The Vikings have gotten some good work from 6-6 sophomore Matt Klinewski, who has score a total of 47 points in the last three games. Klinewski had 17, junior forward Avery Walker had 13, and senior forward Melvin Ford had 13 on Saturday in a 76-57 victory over Cinnaminson.
"We're getting the ball inside," Eastern coach Joe Murphy said. "We were getting to the point where we were shooting too many threes. It's much easier playing inside-out."
Murphy also had high praise for senior guard Jordan Ifill, a playmaker and top defender.
"He's one of those players who holds it together," Murphy said. "He does so many things that never show up in the box score."
Jaguars roar. Saturday's 58-55 victory over Cherry Hill East was a statement game for Medford Tech, which improved its record to 13-3.
