Strong defensive play helps Dal top Cape Breton 88-63

(Halifax, N.S.) – A strong defensive performance helped the Dalhousie Tigers sweep the Cape Breton Capers 88-63 on Saturday afternoon at the Dalplex.

The Tigers forced 19 Cape Breton turnovers and were able turn a number of those into fast break points.

Forward Kashrell Lawrence led the way on both ends for Dalhousie, with 20 points, eight rebounds and two steals. Swingman Kenny Jean-Louis was the Capers best player once more, with a game-high 25 points and nine rebounds.

Both teams shot over 60 percent from the field in the first quarter, however it was the Tigers who led 27-16 after one, thanks in large part to centre Ryall Stroud (Toronto, ON) and guard Jordan Aquino-Serjue (Montreal, QC) who were hard to stop inside the lane.

The two squads shot and scored relatively equally in the second quarter as well. With Dalhousie netting 17 points compared to 14 for Cape Breton. Turnovers played a huge role in the Tigers 44-30 halftime lead though, as Cape Breton had 12 in the first half.

The Capers started the third quarter on a 7-0 run, led by strong defensive play inside as well as Jean-Louis' speed on the offensive end. The Tigers responded emphatically however, outscoring the visitors 20-12 in the final six minutes.

Dalhousie was able to force six more Cape Breton turnovers, frequently ending with the three-point plays, as the hosts were able to drive the line and get to the free throw line.

Lawrence was the catalyst for the Tigers, with 10 of his 20 points coming in the third, as Dalhousie took a commanding 64-49 lead into the final 10 minutes.

Dalhousie went 8-of-10 from the field in the final quarter, playing a smart inside game to stymie the Capers, who shot just 23.1 percent in the final quarter.

With the win, the Tigers advanced to 2-0, while Cape Breton fell to 0-2. Dalhousie's next contest is against cross-town rivals Saint Mary's on the Huskies home court, while Cape Breton will host Acadia on Friday.

By: Mike Still, Dalhousie Athletics