Trojans Nab First League Victory in Comeback Win

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COMEBACK: Pe Ell’s Tough Defense Fuels Second-Half Comeback Over Three Rivers Christian

PE ELL — After trailing almost the entire first half, Pe Ell ripped off a 15-7 run in the third quarter and held Three Rivers Christian to just 11 second-half points to notch its first league victory, 42-31, at home on Thursday.

It was an impressive comeback for a Trojans team that struggled offensively in the first half, thanks to a slew of turnovers as the Trojans played at 100 miles per hour. That led to a 20-16 deficit at the half.

The second half was a different story.

“We came out the second half and shut them down defensively,” Pe Ell coach Chris Phelps said. “We dialed up the pressure and started executing. Our defense generates our offense, and we came out in the third quarter and started putting points on the board.”

Jesse Zard led the Trojans with a double-double of 10 points and 12 rebounds, while Blake Howard added 10 points and Wyatt Marrs finished with six points.

The Trojans shot 12 of 32 from 2-point and 4 of 9 from long range. They won the rebounding battle, 49-37.

“I really feel we’re turning the corner with this group,” Phelps said. “It’s a really fun group to coach and they’re determined.”

Pe Ell (4-6, 1-4 1BCVL) hosts Naselle on Friday in another league clash.