A strong defensive performance by the Rochester John Marshall boys basketball team led to 20-point win over Albert Lea Tuesday.
"Tonight was the first time all year defensively we really put it together for 32 minutes," said John Marshall coach Eric Plitzuweit. "We controlled what they were doing offensively and pressured their guards.
"Our defense led to our offense. We had a number of fast-break opportunities."
Mike Kinsella had another good night with 23 points and 11 rebounds.
But the play of reserve junior Bill Hoffa also drew praise from Plitzuweit. Hoffa had 10 points and nine rebounds. Cody Woiwood contributed 11 points, giving the Rockets three in double figures. Ben Woodside led the Tigers with 13 points.
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Longar Longar did not suit up for the game because of a rules violation, but he is expected to play in the next game.
John Marshall improved to 12-3 overall and 10-1 in the Big Nine.
John Marshall 65, Albert Lea 45
ALBERT LEA (45)
Corey Bowman 6, Ross Habben 2, Scott Hoeg 3, Josh Kasper 2, Jason Kuipers 2, Jay Link 1, Kyle Schrad 6, Jordan Skophammer 2, Brandon Smith 2, Marcus Thorstad 3, Steve Thorn 3, Ben Woodside 13.
ROCHESTER JOHN MARSHALL (65)
Jeff Butorac 0, Kheu Cha 5, Lou Cha 3, Bill Hoffa 10, Mike Kinsella 23, Corey McFarlane 2, Matt Merschbrock 3, Samuel Ngure 4, Mike Polt 2, Brett Percival 2, Cody Woiwood 11.
Quarter scores
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Albert Lea 8 13 23 45
; John Marshall 16 31 49 65
; Three-point goals -- Albert Lea 9 (Woodside 3, Bowman 2, Schrad 2, Thorn 1, Thorstad 1), JM 3 (K, Cha 1, L. Cha 1, Merschbrock 1).
Free throws -- Albert Lea 6-10, JM 10-13.
Fouled out -- None.
