Bryan Hathaway

 

The Escambia Gators avenged an early season loss to Pace on Friday night with a 61-56 win over the Patriots at home, thanks to a late game defensive surge.

 

Both teams were as even as two teams could be the first three quarters, but the Gators were able to force four turnovers and turn them into points in the final eight minutes to slide by the Patriots for the 1-5A victory.

 

Jeff Mullahey led the way for the Pats with 15 points on the night, while teammate Ross Fruge finished with 13 on the evening. The Gator defense focused on Patriot point leader Justin Wright all night, holding Wright to just 8 on the night.

 

Pace will look to rebound on Tuesday night as they host Ft. Walton Beach in another crucial district matchup.

 

At Escambia
Escambia 61, Pace 59

 

Pace: Mullahey 15, Swanson 2, Wright 8, Adams 2, Fruge 13, Smith 4.

 

PHS...14 12 13 17- 56
EHS...14 12 15 20- 61