By Jordan J. Michael

GUILDERLAND –– The Dutchmen boys’ basketball team scored 17 points in the third quarter to take the lead away from Colonie. The team never looked back.

Guilderland beat Colonie, 54 to 46, at home on Tuesday night. Jon Terry’s 18 points led the Dutch. Colonie’s Sean Peer matched Terry with 18 points.

The Red Raiders had a 27-to-24 lead at halftime, but the Dutch outscored Colonie, 17 to 7, in the third quarter to take a 41-to-34 advantage.

“We had some clutch threes in the third quarter that boosted momentum,” said coach Ron Osinski. “We got more patient against their defense and that created better looks.”

Guilderland’s Kevin Kost was held to only three points, but other players stepped up to fill the shoes. “Isiah Folds and Pat Quinn had healthy contributions and did what was necessary,” Osinski said.

Chris Mannarino had 13 points, eight of them coming in the first half. “It’s real important to win at home, especially against the stronger teams,” said Osinski.

Guilderland is 3-0 after the win and faces rival Shenendehowa at home on Friday. Osinski says that it will be another “key test.”

“I can’t really tell where my team is at yet,” said Osinski. “It’s a little too early.”