What We Learned From Woodbridge vs. Freehold Township

Greg Patuto

January 18, 2020 @ 08:14 PM

Game two of the Coaches vs. Cancer Shootout featured Freehold Township and Woodbridge. This was a back-and-forth game for much of the first half. Woodbridge led by two after the first quarter but Freehold rebounded in the second to outscore their opponent 18-10. Freehold was able to maintain their lead and extend in the second half behind their upperclassmen. In the end, it was a 60-43 win for Freehold. Here is what we learned during this game. Freehold applies pressure early and often From the opening tip, Freehold was applying pressure full-court. They used guards Zach Orrico and Anthony Bartel to trap the ball and force mistakes from the other side. The pressure did not stop once Woodbridge crosses half court. They were a swarming defense that trapped in the corners and on the first pass. Woodbridge features young talent Woodbridge’ Class of 2022 was impressive in this one. They featured three sophomores in their starting lineup and they all made an impact. Edin Olivic knocked down two shots from deep in the second quarter to keep his team in the game. These were six of his 11 points on the day. Jameer Brown finished with eight points as well. Joe Lardaro continued strong junior campaign As a sophomore, Lardaro’s role was limited. He gained some experience and that has helped him emerge as the team’s top option in 2020. He finished with 15 points and 13 rebounds in the win. Lardaro jump started the offense with nine of the team’s first 11 points. His rebounding ability was due to his size and ability to our muscle his opponents. Tempo caught up to Barrons Woodbridge was able to compete and hang in the game during the first half but after the break, that all changed. Freehold kept applying their pressure and Woodbridge was being outplayed. It is difficult to handle that kind of pressure over the duration of four quarters and Woodbridge showed that. Their youth and inexperience began to catch up with them in that second half.