North Callaway boys' still winless after loss to state-ranked Community

The Thunderbirds were outscored 21-7 in the fourth quarter of their 48-27 EMO loss to the state-ranked Trojans on Friday night.

North Callaway (0-6, 0-2 Eastern Missouri Conference) bounced back from a 21-13 halftime deficit to outscore Community 7-6 in the third quarter.

The Thunderbirds trailed 33-24 with 5 minutes to go, before the Trojans (6-1, 2-1 EMO) - ranked No. 3 in Class 1 - wrapped up the game with a 15-3 run.

"We gave up just one shot (per possession) the majority of the time on the defensive end," North Callaway head coach Matt Thomas said. "We have to stop playing scared and passive."

Senior center Steven Coleman posted five points and a team-high eight rebounds for the Thunderbirds. Freshman forward Tanner Pezold logged five points and seven rebounds, while junior guard Manzell Payne and freshman guard Coy Danison each scored five.

Clay Thibeau sparked Community with a game-high 21 points and Connor Brooks contributed 12.

North Callaway travels to Southern Boone for junior varsity and varsity girls-boys' doubleheaders at 3 p.m. Monday, Dec. 29.