MARYSVILLE — Every player stepping onto the court for Marysville-Pilchuck received an introduction to varsity basketball in a 58-42 loss to Woodinville Dec. 2.

And while the Tomahawks weren’t dominated in any statistical category, what was left over has to be experience.

“It’s a different speed and level of basketball,” said M-P coach Bary Gould. “They played hard and that’s why we schedule tough non-league opponents.”

The Tomahawks rallied in the second quarter to bring the score to 21-16 with less than 35 seconds remaining and possession of the ball, but a couple of turnovers allowed Woodinville to own a 25-16 lead at halftime.

That was the story of the game. Every time Marysville looked to get back into it, an experienced Woodinville team would find a way to fight the Tomahawks off.

The Falcons started the third quarter by attacking the basket to the tune of a 19-2 run that lasted nearly the entire third quarter.

“That third quarter was pivotal,” Gould said. “We broke down some and they were able to get to the rim.”

Defense was a struggle for Marysville, as Woodinville’s quick guards penetrated often and took advantage of a young team that hadn’t played much man-to-man defense.

“We realize with guards as fast as theirs, that ours are going to get beat. We have to have guys come over, show and give our guard time to recover, and that’s where I thought our problem was tonight,” Gould said.

The Falcons had a lead of as much as 20 points, but a trio of threes on consecutive possessions fueled an 11-1 run Tomahawk run to bring the score to 47-37 with four minutes remaining in the game.

Woodinville went back on the offensive, led by senior post Max Ford, who finished the game with 15 points and eight rebounds.

“He created matchup problems for us tonight,” said Gould about the thick, 6-4 post. “Our bigs are more slender than him and he was able to throw that big body around.”

Leading the Tomahawks was sophomore Ryan Shannon, who 12 points, nine rebounds and five blocks — all team highs.

“He really stepped up for us tonight in his first varsity game, we’re excited about the way he can play,” Gould said.

The M-P coach also praised senior Lucas Stevens, whose three treys helped bring the Tomahawks make a run late in the game.