Post Messenger Recorder -

The Monticello Ponies played at Dodgeville on February 20th, falling to the Dodgeville team 50-85 after a 36-44 halftime deficit.

“I thought we hung with Dodgeville well for a half, but eventually their size and shooting caught up to us and they were able to pull away in the second half,” said Coach Mark Olson.

The Ponies jumped out to an early lead but the Dodgers tied it all up at 14 with 12:45 left in the first half. Dodgeville took that opportunity to go on a 15-point run and while the Ponies battled back they were 8 points behind at halftime. Dodgeville took the lead in scoring again in the second half with another 15-point run, leaving the Ponies behind.

Jackson Eyler scored 20 points to lead Monticello, while Ryer Indergand scored 12 points with 6 rebounds, and Alex and Nick Roe each put 5 on the board, with Roe having 4 rebounds. Peyton Smith grabbed 4 rebounds as well.

On February 23rd, the Ponies played their last regular season game at Albany, winning 41-34 after a single point lead at the halftime break.

“Albany is an improved team that was coming off a big win over Black Hawk, so I am proud of our ability to stay disciplined and our sustained effort to get the win against them,” stated Coach Olson.

With 10 lead changes and 3 ties in the game, it was exciting to watch, and Monticello took the lead for good with less than 8 minutes left in the second half.

Leading the Ponies in scoring was Jackson Eyler with 20 points and 5 rebounds, while Ryer Indergand scored 10 points with 3 rebounds and Peyton Smith scored 8 points with 10 rebounds.

The Ponies close out their regular season with a 6-6 conference record. Monticello, who is seeded #10, played at #7 Cambria-Friesland on February 28th, in the first round of WIAA Division 5 Regional play. The winner plays March 3rd, against the winner of the #15 Madison Country Day vs #2 Faith Christian game.