Seniors Mike Buchwald (left) and Eric Green (right) celebrate during the Aces' victory against Harriton

It wasn't always pretty, but it was effective. The Aces used stellar defense, superior depth and senior leadership to beat Harriton 40-33 on Tuesday night. Eric Green '11 led all scorers with ten points and notched two baskets during an important second half stretch when the Aces gained some breathing room from the pesky Rams. Darius Hall '11 (eight points) and Mike Buchwald '11 (7 points) helped shoulder the scoring load. Matt McKenna '11, Mark Krantz '11 and Colin Eisenstaedt '11 set the tone defensively, harassing Harriton's guards with relentless pressure throughout the evening. McKenna also connected on two important fourth quarter free throws.

Five seniors were on the court at the conclusion of the game as the Dawg Pound erupted into a final, frenzied victory celebration. It was a fitting moment for a core group of players that has had great success since they entered the Lower Merion hallways four years ago.  In a gym tinged with playoff atmosphere -- the Dawg Pound turned in a high-energy performance for the ages -- the veterans' calm and steely resolve was notable.

With the win, the Aces move to 8-3 in league play (9-7 overall). The Rams dropped their sixth consecutive game and fell to 8-8 (5-5 league). Next up for the Aces is another important Central League match-up at Conestoga on Friday night. Tip-off is 7:30 PM.