In their last district clash before the Christmas Classics, Forrest traveled to Cascade.  This game marked the 4th game in 5 days for the Rockets, and Coach Hobbs and Coach Toombs knew that fatigue might play an issue.  This proved to be the case, as Forrest got off to a very slow start.  The halftime score saw the Cascade Champions with a 20-19 lead in what was proving to be a very low scoring affair. 

The Rockets found their motivation at the half and outscored the Champions 22-17 in the third quarter.  This marked the fifth time this season that the Rockets posted 20 points or more in a single quarter.  Going into the fourth period, Forrest led the Champions 41 - 37.  After a 3 pt shot at the buzzer to tie failed, and a last second put back was scored, the Rockets held on to beat Cascade 49-48. 

Mark Pope led all scorers with 23.  Juice Rumley added 11.

On Monday, Dec. 19 the Rockets opened the Wayne Co. Christmas Classic on the road against the home team, Wayne Co.  After a fast paced first qtr that saw the teams score a combined 37 points, the Rockets trailed 20-17.  Forrest discussed some adjustments during the break between the first and second quarters, and some sharp shooting by Mark Pope and Marshall Hunter helped the Rockets take a 36-31 lead into halftime.

In the third quarter, Forrest scored 21 pts and used their fast break offense to build a 12 pt lead, 57-45.  After a scoring drought and a furious comeback effort by Wayne Co, the Rockets held on for a 65-60 win. 

It was a team effort as balanced scoring and defense were the keys to success.  Mark Pope scored 16, Marshall Hunter 15, and Zach Horvath 10.   Zach Ray netted 8, Juice Rumley 6, Jacob Daughrity and Lucas Pruitt tallied 4 each.  Colby Anglin, in limited minutes and seeing his first action since breaking his foot in the season opener, finished with 2 pts. 

The Rockets will be back in action Thursday night in the Wayne Co. classic against the Collinwood Trojans.  Check back often, for all of your Forrest Rocket coverage.