Carroll’s Bridget Archbold, left, is all smiles with Alexis Eberz after the postgame handshake with Conestoga. The PIAA Class 6A tourney game was won by the Patriots in overtime. (Tom Silknitter – For MediaNews Group)
By Bryan Davis
A crucial mistake from the Conestoga girls basketball team in overtime provided Archbishop Carroll the breathing space the Patriots were hoping for Tuesday night, and they took advantage to eke out a 37-33 victory in the second round of the PIAA Class 6A girls basketball tournament at Norristown Area High School.
Holding on to a 34-33 lead, Carroll was trying to run out the clock, but senior Marisa Francione made her second fantastic defensive play in a short span, knocking the ball away and causing a held ball with the possession arrow pointing the Pioneers’ way.
Conestoga coach AJ Thompson called a timeout, but it was determined that the Pioneers didn’t have any timeouts remaining. That resulted in a technical foul and the Patriots retaining possession.
Alexis Eberz made one of two for a 35-33 lead with 28.9 seconds left. Brooke Wilson was fouled and calmly hit both from the line for a 37-33 advantage. That proved to be the final margin as the Pioneers (24-4) were held scoreless in the extra session, missing all five field goal attempts.
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