Westchester Throws Book at Chatsworth in a 65-54 Victory

An apparent scoring error badly hurt Chatsworth High’s chances of upsetting No. 2-seeded Westchester on Wednesday in the quarterfinals of the City Championship girls’ basketball playoffs.

The Chancellors (19-8) lost, 65-54, at Westchester and were furious at a controversial scorekeeper’s decision.

Chatsworth trailed, 41-36, with just over three minutes left in the third quarter. Suddenly, the scoreboard was changed to 43-34. The game was halted as the two opposing scorekeepers argued with the officials.

Despite vehement protests by Chatsworth officials, the nine-point margin remained because that’s what the Westchester scorekeeper had, and as home team, the Comets’ book was official.

Two unofficial tallies by sportswriters had it 41-36.

With just over two minutes left, Chatsworth pulled to within 58-54 on a basket by Ashley Shelton.

But Westchester (23-7) took charge after that behind Shayna Stanley, who finished with 18 points.

Coach Racquel Alotis of Chatsworth said the scoring disagreement disrupted her team and forced her to change strategy.

The Chancellors filed a protest and plan to follow through today with City officials.

Britney Hamilton scored 19 points for Chatsworth.