Rebels fall short against Woodlawn

Vestavia Hills scratched and clawed in its first round game against Woodlawn in the Metro Tournament, but time ran out on the Rebels, as they lost 40-36 in a ball game that was tight throughout.

In the tournament hosted by Homewood, the Rebels got off to a 10-4 lead in the first quarter, as Mac Smith scored five points and Vestavia held Woodlawn to a single field goal.

Woodlawn got things going with a strong second quarter. UAB signee Javien Williams took over in the period, with seven points, including a fast break dunk and a half court shot at the buzzer to end the first half. The Colonels outscored Vestavia 14-5 in the quarter, and took an 18-15 lead into the break.

Williams finished with 22 points in the game, and missed the opportunity at more by deferring to teammates around the basket throughout the game.

The Rebels got back into the game with an 8-0 run in the third quarter, and pulled within two midway through the fourth. An Eric McCrory basket was called off due to a charging foul, and the Colonels held on down the stretch.

Vestavia's offense remained patient most of the contest, content to pass the ball around the perimeter and wait on a Woodlawn defender to get too aggressive and open up a driving lane. Smith led the team with 13 points, including six in the third quarter.

Scott Morrison drained a pair of three-pointers and had eight points. Will Macoy added five and McCrory four for Vestavia.

Vestavia Hills will play Midfield at noon on Thursday in a loser's bracket game.