OXFORD - They may not be regional champs, but the Oxford Golden Bears are still holding a spot in the Division 4 Provincials next weekend in basketball.
At the end of the first quarter, the Oxford Golden Bears had a one-point lead over the North Colchester Mustangs during the regional championship game, however the local team couldn't hold onto that lead.
"We were a little slow coming out, but we stayed with the other team," said Andy Moore, coach of the Golden Bears.
"During the second half, we were a little more organized and played the game. This was the closest game we've had against them this year."
In the end, the Mustangs defeated the Golden Bears, 59-51.
"Provincials will be the real time to tell. I think we are the top two teams in the province."
High scorer for Oxford was Dylan Ellis with 13 points, while Josh Dorn and Milton King each had 12. Mackenzie Stewart added eight.
All 12 of Dorn's points were three-pointers, with three coming in the final quarter.
Tyler Johnson netted the highest amount of points for North Colchester with 28.
Mustangs head coach Scott Armstrong said the team executed really well.
"Coming out, I think there was a lot of nervousness, from both teams, but our Grade 12s really stepped up, especially our three captains," he said.
Armstrong also said the regional tournament, which also saw Pictou Academy earning a spot to qualify for provincials with a win over Pugwash, was tremendous.
"We really do have the top four of about six or seven teams in the province here," he said, adding he hopes the Pictou team can get the win at qualifiers to make it to provincials.
"It's a shame that Pugwash doesn't get to go (to provincials), but they could have just as easily won the championship here."
Provincials will be held at Cabot Jr./Sr. High School in Cape Breton during the first weekend in March.
