Mustangs show their versatility

MARBLE FALLS — The Marble Falls High School boys basketball team lost its home opener to Round Rock Westwood, 94-68, Friday.

The Mustangs are now 0-2 on the season.

Head coach Bruce Etheridge said he was disappointed.

“We’re a much better team than what we showed,” he said. “I don’t know if it was our first home game on the varsity level. We didn’t play like we’re capable.”

Marble Falls took an 8-1 lead thanks to baskets from David Morgan, Bron Etheridge, the coach’s son, and Shane Minnick.

But the Warriors tied it two minutes later. 

Still, Daniel Aulick, Mason Lyttle and Austin Bacon answered to start the Mustangs on an 11-4 run, 19-12.

Connor Docherty scored on a layup to ensure the Mustangs had a 21-18 lead after the first period.

Both squads exchanged baskets throughout the second period. Docherty, Morgan, Etheridge, J’Vante Blanchard and Aulick each scored points.

Regis Parks hit a three-pointer and followed that with a jumper.

The Mustangs ended the half with a Docherty bucket and an Aulick free throw, though they trailed, 48-44.

Marble Falls came back in the third quarter and had turnovers that Westwood converted to points.

The Mustangs scored eight points in the eight-minute stanza with Etheridge accounting for seven on two three-pointers and a free throw.

“In the third quarter, we came out and had a turnover,” the coach said. “I saw some guys hanging their heads. We have to do a better job of getting interior baskets. The guards are not looking to get it to them.”

Marble Falls played better in the fourth period and were outscored, 23-16. 

Etheridge said he thought the Mustangs just did not have enough discipline.

“We lost the rebound battle,” he said. “We didn’t get that done, and it showed. Our guards weren’t very strong in handling the press and the ball.”

The coach also thought the result was from a lack of experience.

“When you have an inexperienced team, you tend to revert to things you’re familiar with,” he said. “We’re learning our man-to-man defense and blocking out in that scheme. But we’ve been working on it for two months.”

Marble Falls was 18 of 36 from the free-throw line. But the foul shots were about even, Etheridge said.

“When you miss 18 free throws, you shouldn’t have a chance to win,” he said.

The Mustangs will play Fredericksburg 8 p.m. Monday at Max Copeland Gym, 2101 Mustang Drive, then travel to Dripping Springs Tuesday for an 8 p.m. contest. 

“I found in my experience players are more resilient than coaches,” Etheridge said. “Kids can let it go and learn from it.” 

Photo by Virgil Belk/Hill Country Sports Images