Templars best Richfield

and Emery last week

By James Tilson

Staff writer

Jan. 18, 2018

MANTI—The Templars of Manti High posted two strong performances in boys basketball last week to vault to second place in Region 15, as the Templars bested Richfield 66-44 and Emery 74-50.

Facing the Wildcats in Richfield on Wednesday, Jan. 10, the Templars displayed an efficient offense that is becoming their signature, scoring at least 15 points in every quarter. On defense, the Templars did not allow the Wildcats to score more than 14 in any quarter.

The Templars were led by Matt Nelson’s 22 points, including three three-pointers.

The home game against Emery on Friday, Jan. 12, was more of the same, with the Templars once again were efficient on offense and stifling on defense. The Templars won two quarters by nine points, one by six and were even in the third quarter.

“I was really pleased tonight with our patience, while still being aggressive on offense,” commented Manti’s coach, Devin Shakespear. “We didn’t have a lot of turnovers, which makes a huge difference. The team didn’t try to force passes or take shots that weren’t there.”

The two victories put the Templars (3-1 Region 15, 11-3 overall) in second place in Region 15, behind South Sevier (3-1 Region 15, 12-2 overall) in first.

With a quarter of the region race completed, the Templars are looking to continue their advantage in their quest for a playoff bid.

This week will offer a big opportunity to jump into the lead in the region race as the Templars traveled to Monroe to face the South Sevier Rams on Tuesday and then face county-rival North Sanpete in Mt. Pleasant tomorrow at 7 p.m.