NOTRE DAME RECOVERS TO FINISH FIFTH

Many things could be said about Notre Dame this season, not the least of which is its inconsistency from game to game.

But, according to Notre Dame coach Chris Neff, there's one thing you can't say: You can't say the Bulldogs aren't dedicated.

After suffering a 15-point loss to fifth-seeded Advance in the second round of the University High Christmas Tournament, the Bulldogs responded with two wins, the second coming in the form of a 65-44 victory in the fifth-place game Thursday night at the Show Me Center.

Neff said his players responded from the loss by not feeling sorry for themselves.

"We had a shootaround the next morning after that Advance loss," Neff said. "I got there at 8, but the players weren't supposed to be there until 10. Don Franklin came in at 8:30 and the rest of the team was there by 9.

"I had 12 distraught kids after that loss, but that's just because they believe in themselves and feel they have a chance to do some things. They take it seriously and I respect that."

As far as the game Thursday night, Notre Dame was in control throughout, taking a 17-7 lead into the second quarter and a 31-21 advantage into the second half.

Notre Dame got 19 points from Chris Dirnberger, who suddenly has become Notre Dame's offensive leader. Dirnberger scored 82 points in four games in the tournament.

"We needed someone to step up," Neff said. "He's led us in a lot of ways. We need that court savvy kid with a little swagger."

Cape Central was inconsistent throughout the game, scoring points in spurts, but the Tigers -- led by Eric Wessel and Ross Conner with 14 points apiece -- couldn't keep up their intensity.

"We're looking for a level of consistency -- offensively, defensively and intensity," said Central coach Brett Reutzel. "You have to match the opponent's level of intensity and I'm not sure we did that."

Conner was efficient once he got the ball, leaping over defenders for some impressive baskets.

"We've got to figure different ways to get him the ball," said Reutzel. "Teams are doubling down on him and tonight they were just showing good help and switching on screens."

Notre Dame got 13 points from Josh Eftink and nine apiece from Derrick Schlosser and Jonathon Ressel.

"I'm just so proud of these guys," Neff said. "I just hope this gets us rolling."