Pirates too much for Highline in opener

PORT ANGELES - The Pirates opened their 2009-10 non-conference campaign with a decisive 87-72 win over the perennial West power Highline Thunderbirds. Sequim's Ryan Rutherford swished a 10-footer from the baseline on Peninsula's first possession and went on to lead the Pirates 21 points and 5 assists. Christian Manzanza had a big night with 16 points, including two monster dunks and a very sharp 8/8 effort from the free throw line. He also led the Pirates with 8 rebounds. Jason Gamblin finished with 14 and Tre Musgrow 11 for a well-balanced Pirate scoring attack. Julian Fernandez had 14 and Darnell Williams 12 to lead Highline. The Pirates see their next action Friday at the Red Devil Classic in Longview.