It seems like Mexico and Kirksville have been battling in the Class 4 District title game for the past decade. Last night was yet another version of the rivalry.
Kirksville jumped out early as Mexico was down by eight in the first, but steadily climbed back into the game and trailed Kirksville 30-29 at the half.
However, the Lady Tigers’ Macey Lehmann came out hot from deep in the third quarter and quickly helped her team open up a five-point lead.
After a timeout, the Bulldogs answered back and closed back to 38-37. A couple of Grace Hudson free throws gave Mexico their first lead of the game late in the third quarter, only to see the Tiger Ette’s regain the lead after cashing in on four straight rebounds. Kirksville hit a couple of free throws and a field goal late to take a 44-41 lead after three. It was a lead they would not relinquish.
Kirksville out-muscled Mexico on the boards throughout the game and it was on display again as they used that muscle to pull out front by six again early in the fourth quarter. Grace Hudson hit a left-wing trey to pull Mexico to within three. Kirksville got a put-back before Alyssa Miller hit an and-one and then hit another free throw to pull Mexico to within two, only to see Kirksville freshman Brynn Shahan answer with a driving layup.
With 91 seconds remaining and trailing by five, 60-55, MHS was forced to foul. Kirksville answered the bell, as they extended the lead for a 67-57 win.
KHS will play the winner of Orchard Farm and Steam Academy in Sectional action.
Hudson led Mexico with 21 points, while Scottie Smith and Alyssa Miller both hit for 14 points apiece. The Lady Bulldogs end the year at 15-13. Head Coach Mackenzie Mudd said her team just made a few too many mistakes.