GOREVILLE — The Anna-Jonesboro Wildcats broke open a close game in the second quarter and never looked back, beating Hardin County 68-47 in the opening game of the Goreville Invitational Tournament for both teams.
The Wildcats led 15-5 after one quarter and extended that lead to 18-5 early in the second. The Cougars quickly responded with a 10-0 run to pull within 18-15, prompting A-J coach Mike Chamness to call a timeout.
After the timeout, the Wildcats closed the half on a 13-2 run. Noah McFarland’s tip in at the buzzer gave A-J a 31-17 lead at the half.
The Cats extended their lead to 25 after three and cruised to the 21-point win.
The two teams will resume play in the tournament Tuesday. The Wildcats will face Hamilton County at 5:30 followed by Benton and Johnston City at 7:00. The Cougars will close the night at 8:30 against the host Blackcats.