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Lowell too much for Central

METHUEN — Melissa Miller couldn’t help but look to the future. If Central Catholic can play like this without Katie Zenevitch, who’s still recovering from a broken hand, what will it be like when she returns?

“We can hang in there,” said Miller, a sophomore forward. “When we have Katie it’ll be even better.”

The Raiders did hang in yesterday, but in the end, Lowell was just too much. In front of a crowd of about 250 at Klimas Memorial Field House, the Red Raiders defeated Central 50-41 in the semifinals of the Greater Lawrence Christmas Tournament.

“We were right there,” Central coach Sue Downer said. “To almost beat them — without Katie —  is something to build on.”

Central led 33-30 after three quarters, but Lowell outscored the Raiders 20-7 in the final frame. Six-footers Brianna (8 points) and Whitney (13 points) Wilson were their usual dominant selves in the post, making it difficult on Miller, who fought for position valiantly.

“You just have to put all your effort into it,” the 6-foot Miller said of facing the Wilsons.

Miller scored 10 points but the Raiders lacked punch on offense down the stretch.

“We needed somebody to help her out,” Downer said.

Gia O’Connor led Central with 11 points and Gabie Polce chipped in 10, but it wasn’t quite enough.

“We didn’t take advantage of the opportunity,” Miller said. “We all know we have to step up.”

The Raiders will face North Andover in the third-place game Saturday at 6 p.m.