By Neal Embry/For the Reporter

PELHAM – The Spain Park Lady Jaguars knew they had a tough task ahead of them going into the fourth quarter in Pelham Tuesday night.  Down by 10 heading into the last eight minutes, the Jaguars had faced a physical Pelham team all night long.

As the fourth quarter started, Spain Park coach Mike Chase switched to a full court press, giving his team the defensive advantage.  In a matter of minutes, the Jaguars had forced three turnovers and cut the lead to within five.

At the end of what turned out to be a 17-2 run, Spain Park’s Victoria Baldwin sunk a three-point shot that gave the visitors a 44-41 lead, a lead they would not relinquish on their way to a 49-44 victory.

Baldwin finished with 18 points, while the Panthers’ Erykah Hall led all scorers with 22 points.  The Panthers outscored the Jaguars 27-13 in the second and third quarters, getting to the free throw line and keeping Spain Park from gaining any momentum, but were unable to counter the Jaguars’ defensive pressure.

Jordan Allison scored eight for the Panthers.  Keyasha Gordon also added eight for Spain Park.

“I thought Pelham played great.  We’re still trying to find our identity right now,” Chase said after the win.

On Dec. 12, Pelham hosts Briarwood, while Spain Park travels to Thompson.