Waterford takes the first game in the Battle for the River
By: Jamey Spears
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BEVERLY, Ohio (WOUB) — Waterford claimed bragging rights in the opening chapter of the Battle for the River. They defeated Fort Frye 51-48 in a hard-fought rivalry game on the road.
The Wildcats and Cadets exchanged baskets early, setting the tone for a competitive night. Fort Frye held a narrow 12-10 advantage after the first quarter despite strong defensive play from Waterford, including a key blocked shot by Weston Fairchild.
Fort Frye maintained control in the second quarter and built their lead late. Kainan Bradford converted a layup as time expired before halftime, giving the Cadets a 24-19 lead at the break. Waterford was limited to nine points in the quarter but stayed within striking distance of Fort Frye.
Waterford came out aggressively in the third quarter, with Reese Lang and Colby Roberts combining for five quick points to open the half and cut into the deficit.
The back and forth continued until Cade Hoskinson knocked down a deep shot with 10 seconds left in the quarter to give Fort Frye a three-point edge. Waterford answered immediately as Finn Pennock drilled a buzzer-beating three-pointer to tie the game at 37 entering the fourth quarter.
With 4:01 remaining, Waterford called a timeout trailing 43-42. Fort Frye briefly regained momentum with a 5-2 run out of the break, capped by a three-point basket to extend the lead.
The Wildcats responded with poise, going on a decisive 5-0 run to retake the lead at 49-48. Waterford sealed the win at the free throw line with a couple of late makes.
The Cadets had two opportunities in the final moments to tie the game up, but both attempts came up short as the Wildcats secured the 51-48 victory.
The Wildcats are scheduled to face River Valley on Tuesday before taking on Southern, the TVC-Hocking first place team, on Friday. Fort Frye will aim to rebound as the Cadets travel to Caldwell on Tuesday and then visit Marietta on Thursday.