By Kevin Eckleberry

kevin.eckleberry@lagrangenews.com

LAGRANGE – The Troup Tigers fought back from a nine-point deficit at the close of the third quarter to make a game of it, but it was the Sandy Creek Patriots escaping with a 58-51 victory on Wednesday night.

The Tigers got as close as four points with 26 seconds remaining, but they were unable to close the gap any further.

Troup, which was coming off a road loss to Cartersville on Tuesday, fell to 2-4 in Region 5-AAAA heading into Friday’s home game against Chapel Hill.

Jarrious Jefferson, who had 28 points in the Cartersville game, had 21 points to lead the way against Sandy Creek.

Montez Crowe added 14 points for Troup, and it was his 3-pointer that cut Sandy Creek’s lead to four in the closing moments.

In Tuesday’s girls’ game, Sandy Creek pulled away in the fourth quarter for a 48-36 victory.

Troup (11-7) is still in good shape in Region 5-AAAA at 4-2 heading into Friday’s game with Chapel Hill.

Akhya Mitchell led Troup with 10 points, and Kwyneshia Spence and Amber Gilbert had seven points apiece.

OF NOTE: For much more on Wednesday’s games, along with photos, check out Friday’s sports section.