By Diana Smith
The Texarkana Bulldogs saddled the Panola Ponies and rode to a 71-58 victory Monday night in the Tiger Gym.
The Ponies, having a quick lead, seemed more interested in dribbling than scoring, and the ‘Dogs stole the ball several times.
After Bob Burns intercepted a pass from Panola, Billy Fitts put the ‘Dogs in front 119 with 11 minutes left in the half. Richard Houston, forward, made five quick goals with Fitts making 8 points in the first half.
In the second half, Burns and Fletcher Warner did most of the scoring. The Ponies came alive and took over the lead.
The ‘Dogs finally found the way to pass the midcourt line, and they had a chance to clinch the score when they got 21 free throws. Only 12 of the throws were good, but a flurry of shots were hit in the final two minutes of the game.
TC could manage only 21 of the 36 free throws given to them, and they had to outscore the Panola Ponies on their own. High scorer for TC was Burns with 16 points; Fitts hit 14 and Houston totaled 10.
The team gives the ‘Dogs a 4-2 record. They will open conference play Monday night at Tyler against the Tyler Apaches.