By By Chandler Myers
A sloppy second half led to the Escambia County Blue Devils being defeated 62-49 by the Spanish Fort Toros on Tuesday at Escambia County High School.
The Blue Devils (6-11, 0-5) held the lead early in the game, but gave up huge points in the third and fourth quarters to fall behind the Toros.
In the first quarter, the Blue Devils gained the lead with a good offensive effort outscoring the Toros 11-9.
The Blue Devils were able to hold the lead going into halftime as they again outscored Spanish Fort 8-6. At halftime, the home team led 19-15.
Following halftime, the Toros adjusted to what the Blue Devils were doing and grabbed points at will.
The Toros were able to pull ahead by four in the third quarter as they outscored the hosting Blue Devils 21-13 to go into the fourth quarter leading 36-32.
In the final quarter, Spanish Fort pulled away gaining 24 more points, while holding the Blue Devils to 17. With the outburst of points, the Toros picked up the 13-point victory.
Blue Devils Head Coach Tim Moorer said despite the loss, his team played a good game.
Blue Devils guard Cedric Pierce led the team with 20 points. Pierce also blocked three shots, pulled down two rebounds, dished out two assists and stole a pass.
Pierce was supported by T.C. Brown who scored 16 points, while recordgin five rbounds, five assists and a steal.
Devante Brown added four points with five assists, four rebounds and a steal, and Douglas Oliver scored two points in the loss.
The Blue Devils host senior night Tuesday against T.R. Miller. Tipoff is at 7:30 p.m.