DOWNEY – If Saturday’s basketball game against Paramount is a precursor of things to come in San Gabriel Valley League play, then it could be a long season for the Downey Vikings.

In a 61-47 loss, Downey never led and Paramount outscored them in every quarter. The scary thing about the loss is that Paramount is supposed to be one of the teams that Downey needs to beat in SGVL play if they have any hopes of returning to the CIF playoffs.

Downey did manage to keep the game close only being down by six points at the half, 26-20, but when Downey tried to rally in the second half, the Pirates always had an answer.

In that second half, Downey made key adjustments that helped them put the ball in the hoop more efficiently, but as their offensive output increased, their defensive ability crashed.

The last quarter proved to be the most costly with Downey allowing a game high 19 points.

Downey now has a 2-week break and won’t play again until Jan. 7 in their last preseason game.

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Published: December 25, 2009 - Volume 8 - Issue 35