East runs out of magic in sectional final

By Matt Nestor
Sports Columnist

The East E-Rabs led by 7 at halftime of their IHSA Class 3A sectional in Woodstock. They even pushed the lead to 10 in the third quarter.

They held that lead almost until the end of regulation. Then, as they had done three nights earlier, Aurora Central Catholic hit a 3 to send the game into overtime, then outscored East 13-10 in the overtime period to win the sectional title 85-82.

Aurora Central started the playoffs with a 13-13 record, but now find themselves a game away from state. They will take on Rock Island in the super sectional round.

Chargers guard Ryan Harreld hit the game-tying 3 to send the game into overtime, part of his 24 points, which led all scorers.

For East, all of their key players showed up to play. Steven McNease scored 21 points, Javon Henderson scored 17 and Alonte Holliday scored 16.

Robert DeMeyers also chipped in 18 points for the Chargers.

For East, they are no doubt disappointed they won’t join fellow Rockford school Auburn a game away from Peoria and a shot at the state championship.

But for a team that has gone through years of losing, East Head Coach Roy Sackmaster is happy with how far his team has come.

“Something about our kids this year, there is something about them where they are determined to break on through,” he said.