FITCH FINALLY PUNCHES THROUGH TO DISTRICTS
By Ty Bartell
AUSTINTOWN, OH— The Austintown-Fitch Falcons girls basketball team delivered a commanding performance in the sectional final matchup against the Canton McKinley Bulldogs, securing a resounding 57-35 victory on Thursday night.
In a clash between the Falcons, representing the All American Conference (AAC), and the long-tenured Federal League member Bulldogs from Canton McKinley, Austintown-Fitch emerged as the dominant force.
The Falcons wasted no time asserting their dominance, starting the game with a fast-paced offensive onslaught to seize a double-digit lead by the end of the first quarter, holding a commanding 16-6 advantage over the Bulldogs. Fitch continued their stellar defensive performance in the second quarter, keeping Canton McKinley’s offense at bay while extending their lead with a 14-2 period to hold a commanding 30-8 lead at halftime.
Although the Bulldogs managed to play the game more evenly in the second half, with Fitch holding a narrow 12-11 edge in the third quarter, the Falcons maintained control with a 42-19 lead heading into the final period. Austintown-Fitch then put the finishing touches in the fourth quarter, securing the victory despite Canton McKinley outscoring them 16-15 in the final period.
Player of the Game honors were awarded to both “Ace” Ayla Ray and Rachel Spalding. Ray led all scorers with a game-high 15 points, while Spalding contributed 11 points to help pace the Falcons. On the opposing side, Kylonee Foster led Canton McKinley with 14 points, followed by Sha’Rayia Hall with 9 points.
With the win, Austintown-Fitch improves to a 14-9 record on the season and advances to the Division 1, Region 1, Northeast 1 brackets district semi-final at Massillon Perry, where they will face another pack of Bulldogs in Stow-Munroe Falls (19-5) on Tuesday, February 27th. Canton McKinley concludes their season with a record of 9-14.
For the latest updates on Austintown-Fitch Falcons basketball and more, including live games, scores, stats, and stories, fans can stay tuned to YSN throughout the season.
