LIMA — Allen East extended its winning streak over Temple Christian to eight straight games, earning a 51-47 road victory at the Covered Wagon.

The Mustangs pushed their third-quarter lead to double digits when Brady Brooks knocked down a three from the wing. Temple Christian answered quickly as Derek Shultz sliced through the lane for a strong finish, trimming the margin back to single digits.

Allen East stepped up its defense moments later, converting a steal into a smooth euro-step layup to keep the lead at 10. In the fourth quarter, Nevan Long powered through two defenders to bring the Pioneers within striking distance as the game tightened down the stretch.

Temple Christian continued to battle, but Allen East made the key plays late. Ethan Hershberger secured an offensive rebound and scored on the put-back to help the Mustangs close out the win.

Allen East improved to 51-47 in the final.

Tags