Dominating defense was a major factor for the Emporia High Lady Spartans as they defeated Junction City 71-8 Friday night.
The Lady Spartans would force 30 turnovers and hold Junction City to just five total points in the first half to take a 48-5 lead into halftime. The Lady Spartans wouldn’t let up in the second half outscoring the Blue Jays 23-3 to seal the win.
Emporia was led in scoring by sophomore Addie Kirmer with 22-points. Senior Gracie Gilpin added 17-points.
Coach Carolyn Dorsey says they pride themselves on being a physical defensive team.
With the win, the Lady Spartans improve to 5-2 on the season.
In the boy’s game, Emporia High would let a halftime lead slip away as they fell to Junction City 65-52.
Emporia would manage to come out on top of a first half that saw seven lead changes and three ties with a 27-26 lead thanks to a last-minute three by freshman River Peters. In the second Junction City would overtake the lead for good in the third outscoring EHS 17-6.
The Blue Jays would build the lead to as many as 18 at one time to close out the win. Head Coach Beau Welch says they needed to have more quality possessions late in the game.
Emporia had two players in double figures as freshman River Peters and sophomore Cooper Rech both ended the night with 18.
With the loss Emporia falls to 0-7 on the season.
