WARRIORS 4TH QUARTER SURGE FALLS JUST SHORT

Coming into the game, both teams had impressive records—Edgewood at 16-5 and Firelands at 16-6—setting the stage for a highly competitive contest. The first quarter was a defensive battle, tied at 3-3 midway through, before the Falcons surged ahead to take a 15-10 lead.

Firelands extended their advantage to nine points at halftime, thanks in part to a pair of clutch three-pointers by Kendra Hardwick. Edgewood battled back in the third quarter, trimming the lead to seven entering the final frame.

With 5:25 left in the game, the Falcons seemed in control, leading 50-36. However, the Warriors refused to go down quietly. Edgewood went on a relentless 14-1 run, outscoring Firelands 17-11 in the final period. Hardwick’s lone free throw in the closing moments proved to be the difference, as the Falcons barely held on for the one-point victory.

Jordyn Copley and Hardwick led the way for Firelands, each scoring 14 points. The Warriors were paced by Faith Vencill’s 15 points, followed by Carly Kray with 12.

Edgewood will wrap up their regular season on February 24, hosting the Madison Blue Streaks in a battle for the Chagrin Valley Lake Division title. Firelands, meanwhile, advances in sectional play and will face Alliance Marlington on February 18.