By Jim Hintelmann
MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP – Despite having only two returning starters (one of them out for the season with a torn ACL) from last year’s A Division North and NJSIAA Central Jersey Group III team, Middletown High School South girls basketball team has gotten off to a strong start, with a 6-1 record.
The Eagles led from the start to rout Mater Dei Prep, 54-23, Saturday in a nondivision game using superior height and athleticism, and once again looks to be a solid contender in the division.
“You have to be happy with a 6-1 start,” said South coach Tom Brennan, who recently won his 300th game with a win over Red Bank Catholic. “We lost Jill Falvey for the season with the torn ACL, but we have three other players back who played a lot last year.”
South, led by Stephanie Karcz (24 points) raced out to a 30-10 halftime lead and then scored the first 10 points of the third quarter to put the game out of reach. Reserves played most of the final quarter.
“We still have to rebound better and make our free throws,” said Brennan, whose only loss was to state power Manasquan.
“Manasquan is just a very skilled team,” said Brennan, who looks for Freehold Township to be the main competition in the A North.
“They have everyone back from last year and are a very good team,” said Brennan, “but I think that every team in the division has improved.”
Although losing, Mater Dei coach Brian Laux expects a good season in the B Division Central with three returning starters.
“St. Rose is the team to beat,” said Laux, “but I think we can do well in our division. We have to play smart and pick up on our defense a little.
“We played a bit tentative today,” he said. “I told the team about that after the game, but I think we will be OK this year.”
