Middlebury to Play Stronger Crimson Five

With two victories to its credit, a confident Crimson basketball squad will defend its undefeated status against Middle-bury College here tonight. Overconfidence may pose a bigger threat than the opposing team, which dropped its opener, 78 to 61, to Union College last Wednesday.

Crimson coach Floyd Wilson stated yesterday that the varsity's early season performance had exceeded his expectations. The varsity opened its season Monday night by routing the University of Massachusetts, 84 to 58, and fought off a comeback attempt by Bowdoin College Wednesday to win, 69 to 58.

The Crimson squad showed little depth in its opening game against the University of Massachusetts, but two reserves, Griff McClellan and Mike Donohue, performed exceptionally well against Bowdoin. McClellan, a 6 ft. 8 in. junior, entered the game midway through the second half when a powerful Bowdoin comeback drive threatened to overtake the Crimson. He sank several crucial baskets in the varsity's rally.

Middlebury is less experienced than the Crimson five, and will suffer a height disadvantage. However, Union, which trounced Middlebury, is regarded as a strong basketball school.

High scorer for Middlebury against Union, with 14 points, was 6 ft. 5 in sophomore center Charles Rand, the squad's tallest man. Left forward Hugh Greer followed with 12 points. Other starters include forward Carmine Pedzello and guards Howard Wiley and Brad Dunber.

The usual Crimson lineup will be ready to go at 8:30 p.m. at the I.A.B. Bryant Danner, Captain Dick Woolston, George Harrington, Monk Muncaster, and Bob Repetto will start.

The Yardling basketball team will meet the Crimson Jayvees at 6:30 in the preliminary event.