Girls HS Hoops: Chagrin Falls Wins a Thriller, Tops Kirtland 39-38 to Improve to 9-2

In a game that matched up two teams coming in with winning streaks, the Chagrin Falls Tigers ended the Kirtland Hornets six-game winning streak with a tough 39-38 win in a non-conference matchup between two Chagrin Valley Conference schools.

Kirtland entered Thursday’s game at 6-2, and had not dropped a decision since losing to Perry back on December 3rd by a final of 63-40.

The Tigers streak continues, as they are now 9-2 on the year with the win, and since starting the season 2-2, the ladies have run off now seven straight victories.

Sophomore forward Julia Santamaria led the lady Tigers with 15 points in the win.

Senior small forward Jenna Sayle led the way for the Hornet popping in 11 points in the setback.

The Tigers had the ball and had to inbound with 1.6 seconds left, and after a throw down court the Hornets tried a desperation heave at the basket that fell short, giving Chagrin Falls the win.

Chagrin Falls used a big second quarter to take a nine-point lead at the half 25-16, but the Hornets would not go away, making it a nip and tuck affair down the stretch.

Kirtland closed it a four-point game, trailing 35-31 with 5:22 to play in the fourth quarter.

Tigers junior point guard Bella Dalessandro hit a pair of free throws to give the lady Tigers a 37-32 lead with 4:34 to play, and then Sayle hit a bucket for the Hornets to make it 37-34 with 2:17 left.

The lady Tigers did enough in the final seconds to hold off, getting the big road win to keep their streak going.

Chagrin Falls has a huge game on Saturday at 2:30pm at home against Perry, who currently lead the standings with a perfect 5-0 mark in conference play.

The Hornets will also play on Saturday at 2:30pm at home as they will take on the Lady Blue Devils of Independence. The Lady Blue Devils lead the Chagrin Valley Conference Valley Standings with a 7-0 conference mark.

Tigers hang on for the win
CF 39, KHS 38 Finalhttps://t.co/oUTOm2EZxw pic.twitter.com/o6RqWiYVJC

— Ohio Varsity (@ohiovarsity) January 4, 2019