- November 4, 2024
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In another episode of the crosstown rivalry, Matanzas goes out as the victors over Flagler Palm Coast, this time in a boys bowling match 2,245-2,031 Tuesday, Sept. 22, at Palm Coast Lanes.
The game was unlike many of the past rivalry contests; dozens of supporters flocked to the alley, mostly Matanzas fans, to cheer on the bowlers. For most of the kids, the crowd seemed to have made positive and negative impacts.
“They were caught by surprise at the crowd today,” said Steve Stripling, FPC’s coach. “I just told them that it was a part of being in a competitive sport. I liked it, even though it for the opposing team. It just shows that more people are getting into it. It brings a more competitive spirit.”
The Bulldogs struck in the first in the match, winning the first game 672-607, but the Pirates roared back with two 800 games pull away from the Bulldogs.
“I told them to relax, be consistent, focus and let’s get them,” coach Frank Novak said. “
Freshman Anthony Godwin led all boys’ bowlers with 598 pins, and Curtis Payne rebounded from a low-scoring first game to record his sixth and seventh 200 games of the season, a team best.
“You have a rough start every now and then, but, once you get through that rough start, you just get better and better,” Payne said.
For FPC, Alex Detoma led all bowlers with a 168, 214 and a 204.
Up next for the Pirates is Pine Ridge at 3:45 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, in Port Orange, and FPC will play Deland at 3:45 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 24, at Palm Coast Lanes.
“I think the crowd is the reason Matanzas came back so strong. It may have affected our guys a little bit, but the crowd really was a factor in turning them around.”
Steve Stripling