By By Chandler Myers
An early lead turned slim as the Escambia Couny Blue Devils held on for a 60-59 win over the Hillcrest Jaguars last Thursday night in Evergreen.
The Blue Devils (14-10, 3-3) started the game strong, but had to keep their heads above water as the Jaguars fought back in the second half.
In the first quarter, the Blue Devils poured shots into their hoop and put up 25-first quarter points, while holding Hillcrest to 15.
The Jaguars chipped away at the ECHS lead by scoring 14 points in the second quarter, and only allowing the Blue Devils to add 10 to their total. At halftime, ECHS led the host team 35-29.
Blue Devils head coach Anthony Hayes said the Blue Devils hit shots, but hit a slide in the second quarter.
After halftime, the Blue Devils continued to lead the game, but the Jaguars of Hillcrest continued to stay close.
In the third quarter, the Blue Devils were outscored 15-14 by Hillcrest.
The five-point lead that ECHS held became tested in the final quarter. Hillcrest took the Blue Devils to the limit as they outscored them 15-11, but did not have the final push to get ahead, and ECHS squeaked out of Evergreen with a win.
Hayes said it was a well played game by both teams.
Blue Devils junior forward Kingston Craft paced the team with 21 points. He also shot 8-of-16 from the free throw line.
Junior guard Eric Davis chipped in 15 points for the ECHS win. He shot a team best 5-for-6 from the charity stripe.
The Blue Devils next game is against Spanish Fort in the area tournament on Feb. 6.