Erminio, Simpson lead Fillies
GREENSBURG — Tori Simpson and Marissa Erminio combined for 29 points to lead the Laurel Highlands Fillies to a Section 3-AAA opening-night win, 54-40, over Greensburg Salem, Thursday night.
After the Lady Lions scored to open the game, Simpson and Erminio double-handedly took over to score all the Fillies’ 17 first-quarter points. In that opening frame, Simpson rifled in three 3-point field goals, and Erminio scored four points following offensive rebounds and canned a pair of free throws after a third offensive board, as Laurel Highlands, despite six turnovers, including five in their first six possessions, led 17-10 after eight minutes of action.
“We’re happy to get this first section win, but we were a little nervous to open the game,” LH coach Amy Tungate said. “We were excited at the same time and our excitement overcame our nervousness. What Tori and Marissa did in the first quarter was huge for our start and confidence.”
Laurel Highlands (4-0, 1-0) scored the first five points of the second quarter to open up a 12-point lead, but the Golden Lions (1-2, 0-1) cut the lead to seven points at 24-17. In the final minute of the second period, however, Simpson added another pair of 3-pointers to give the Fillies a 30-17 lead at halftime. Simpson scored a game- and season-high 19 points.
“We have an advantage with our inside game with Marissa and Brandi (Liptock),” Tungate added, “and their presence inside opens up our outside game. Our inside and outside games complement each other.”
Erminio pulled down a game-high 19 rebounds and added three blocks.
With a 42-26 lead after three quarters, Laurel Highlands opened the final period with a highly-disciplined offense led by sophomore point guard Haley Moreland, playing keep away.
“That was our game strategy,” Tungate said. “Knowing the game situation and controlling the ball in that situation has been a focus for us this year, and that situation dictated that we hold onto the ball. Haley handles the ball well and has grown considerably in her position since last year. She’s developed into a nice point guard and she is still learning.”
Laurel Highlands will host Derry Monday night to continue section play.