The Mineola Yellowjackets routed Mount Vernon last Saturday, 73-34, on the Tigers’ home court. The win was decisive. 

The first two quarters revealed the techniques which have thus far fueled the Yellowjackets this season. Excellent positional play inside, strong rebounding and an unnerving press combined to register the 15-4 first quarter lead. Six Jackets scored in the opening quarter.

It was the Jackets’ team defense which led Mineola from the opening tip. 

In the second quarter, the second key to Mineola’s play was revealed. Guards Jonah Fischer and TJ Moreland provided all the scoring for Mineola in the quarter. Fischer fired for 10 points while Moreland tallied 11. They finished with 21 and 16 points on the day, respectively.

The best surprise for the Mineola faithful was the solid play of Stephen Ogueri, who was a mainstay under the boards in the second half. 

With the noteworthy guard play and strong inside presence of Dawson Pendergrass and Trevion Sneed, the Jackets have a bright future in this campaign. Wingers Andrew Stinchfield and Aidan Steward also made contributions in the big win. It is likely that their efforts will become more and more important as the season draws on. 

After a non-district game against Whitehouse, the Jackets next district competition will be the Harmony Eagles this Friday, in Harmony.