Our men's basketball team had a tough test on Friday night when they took on the Durham Lords who hold the top seed in the OCAA East.  The Wolves were hoping to hand the Lords their first loss of the season.  

Algonquin got off to a slow start offensively and Durham took advantage finishing the first quarter with a 26-16 lead.  Despite the early struggles, 5th year guard Simon Desta was a bright spot for the Wolves scoring 6 points and providing a spark off the bench.  

The 2nd quarter was evenly played and the Wolves were able to narrow the gap going into the half.  Simon Desta continued to lead the way offensively with 11 points.  Jansen Balmaceda and Tesloch Luk each had 8.  

Algonquin made the adjustments and came out of the locker room ready to make a push.  The team battled collectively on the glass and their efforts were rewarded, winning the quarter 25-14 and taking a 59-56 lead going into the final frame.  5th year forward Ted Braden was a force inside during the quarter scoring 8 points and grabbing 3 boards.  The Wolves continued their run early in the 4th quarter to extend their lead to 6, but unfortunately the well ran dry and the Lords capitalized to win the 4th quarter 25-9 and ultimately take the game 81-68.  

Tesloch Luk led the Wolves in scoring with 18 points and 6 boards.  Simon Desta finished with 15 points in 25 minutes off the bench.  Jansen Balmaceda added 11 points.  Ted Braden had a 10 point and 11 rebound double double.   

The Wolves went toe to toe with the top team in the East for large parts of the game.  They won't have a lot of time to lick their wounds as they are back in action on Saturday January 18th when the Fleming Phoenix (3-9) come to town for a 6:00 pm tip-off. 

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