By Steve Huffman
shuffman@salisburypost.com
SPENCER ó Providence Grove was 10 of 13 from the free throw line in the fourth quarter Friday, and that was the difference as the Patriots stopped North Rowan 51-43.
The Cavaliers (2-12 overall, 0-5 CCC) trailed just 31-30 entering the final period, and held a 42-41 lead when Daquandra Cuthbertson followed a teammate’s miss for a field goal with three minutes remaining.
But Providence Grove controlled the final minutes, free throws proving the difference.
The Patriots took the lead for good off a basket by Logan Hardin with 2:10 to play. North stayed within 45-43 when Cuthbertson hit a free throw at the 1:15 mark.
A combined six free throws by Kristie Langley and Erin Mixon in the final minute sealed the victory for the Patriots (7-8, 2-3).
North was led by Teaunna Cuthbertson with 15 points and Symphony Roberts with with 10.
The Cavaliers held their own most of the night, leading 14-11 after the first period and trailing just 23-22 at halftime.
North trailed 30-25 midway through the third quarter, but battled back to tie the game at 30 after Deshea Torrence nailed a 3-pointer and April Ellis stole a pass and drove the court for a basket.
Providence Grove was led by Logan Hardin with 17 and Asha Matthews with 11.providence grove (51) ó Hardin 17, Matthews 11, Langley 8, Mixon 7, Co. Haithcox 3, Lowe 3, Ca. Haithcox 2.north rowan (43) ó T.Cuthbertson 15, Roberts 10, D.Cuthbertson 8, Torrence 5, Ellis 4, Gregory 1.
Providence 11 12 8 20 ó 51
N. Rowan 14 8 8 13 ó 43