Frustration mounted for Bethlehem Catholic’s girls basketball team as a steady stream of fouls were called on the Golden Hawks throughout their 49-34 loss to Easton on Jan. 9 at Bethlehem Catholic.

“I could use that as an excuse, but I told our girls we’ll watch the film, and we’ll improve,” said Becahi coach Arnold Alleyne. “It’s easy for us to say, man, these refs are bad. In reality, [Easton] made 16 free throws in the second half, so it’s more difficult to compete.”

Ironically, Becahi’s Kendall Nickischer scored the first points of the game on a 3-shot foul.

The Hawks led, 10-8, at the end of the first quarter and trailed by just three points at halftime, 20-17.

Ayva Radande scored on a great play from Nickischer to take back the lead, and Leah Ault’s 3-pointer seemed to put the Hawk’s in control until a multitude of whistles stymied the Hawks.

Easton sank nine free throws in the third quarter, and when Melina Cole missed her second foul shot, Cole grabbed her own rebound for two more Red Rover points.

Becahi slowed down the tempo to open the fourth quarter, but Easton immediately put up four points for a 12 point lead.

Nickischer’s 3-pointer gave the Hawks hope, but fouls continued to plague Becahi.

“Our girls battled and competed, and we’ll continue to get better,” said Coach Alleyne. “Hopefully, we’ll get healthy soon, but it’s no excuse. We have to continue to compete as a team, and we’ll build the house with the tools we have in the box.”

Alleyne was referring to injured players, Aliyah Brame and Kamryn Gallis, who are expected to return in 10 days or so.

“I told our girls to stay in control and do what we’re good at, but we’ll be able to adjust,” he said. “We have 32 points off the bench. I’m excited to see Easton again.”

On Monday night, Becahi traveled to Emmaus where they beat the Hornets, 50-35.