Amherst splits tournament games

Amherst Central's varsity girls basketball team closed out the first half of its 2006-07 schedule with a second-place finish at the Mount St. Mary's Tournament held Dec. 26-27.

Amherst (5-4, 3-1) lost to host school Mount St. Mary's, 52-42, in the finals. Senior Jodi Battaglia led with 16 points, followed by Liz Reid and Amy Simon with seven points each.

Amherst won, 67-61, over Alden in the first game. Junior Amy Simon led with 14 points. Right behind her was Battaglia with 11 points. Seniors Stephine Woods and Shannon McGuire added 10 points each.

Battalia and Reid were selected to the all-tournament team for their numerous rebounds, blocked shots and consistent play.

Just before the break, Amherst defeated West Seneca East, 54-33. After a slow start in the first half, the Lady Tigers outscored West Seneca East, 33-18, in the second half. Battaglia and Reid both finished with 11 points.

"At the halfway point of the season, we are working well together," said Amherst coach JoAnna Fildes. "We have a lot to work on and perfect before the next game versus Lake Shore on January 10."