Stanton eliminated by Exira-EHK

EXIRA — The Stanton Vikings lost Thursday night to Exira-Elk Horn Kimbalton in the quarterfinals of Class 1A boys regional basketball tournament, which took place in Exira.

Exira-EHK scored 24 points right away in the first quarter and maintained a substantial lead from there.

Jeff Marshall fouled out of the game, but not before recording a double-double for the Vikings. Marshall scored 17 points on 7-for-10 shooting with 10 rebounds, as well as two assists and three steals.

Marshall was the only Stanton player to have double-digit points in the game.

Greg Focht had seven points and eight rebounds (five offensive), while Austin Becthold and Greg Marshall had six and five points, respectively.

Stanton reached the quarterfinals by defeating the South Page Rebels at home on Feb. 13, 48-36. The Rebels had a two-point lead at halftime, but Stanton was able to take over in the third and fourth quarter, scoring a combined 33 points.

Jeff Marshall was once again the leading scorer in the win over South Page. Marshall scored 15 points, had eight rebounds and a season high of five blocks.

Focht has 12 points on 6-for-12 shooting and was a rebound shy of the double-double. Becthold was able to get the double-double as he scored 11 points and had 10 rebounds (six offensive). Greg Marshall recorded eight points and finished with two steals.

The Vikings finish the 2011-12 season with a 9-12 record.