The Carpinteria girls battled to the end Thursday against Citrus Coast League undefeated leader Santa Paula, but the host Cardinals posted a 50-43 win in overtime.
The Warriors led 21-16 at the half, after both teams came out playing aggressive defense. Carpinteria held Santa Paula to five points in the second quarter.
The third quarter was a back-and-forth battle, with the Warriors maintaining a one-point lead, 29-28, at the end of the frame. Carpinteria was leading by as much as five points until the last 1:36 of the game.
“We missed free throws and other scoring opportunities to allow the Cardinals to stay within striking distance,” Warrior coach Henry Gonzales said. “They were able to tie the score at 38 with 14 seconds left in regulation.”
Carpinteria then moved the ball up the court, drawing a foul with three seconds left in regulation. After missing both free throws, the Warriors got the benefit of the possession arrow after a rebounding tie-up.
After a timeout, Carpinteria managed a good shot attempt in the last few seconds, but it did not go in, sending the game to overtime.
“The Cardinals were able to execute more efficiently in the OT, and we were not able to respond effectively,” Gonzales said.
“Though we are disappointed in the outcome, we feel good about our competitive effort, never-say-die attitude, and commitment,” Gonzales said.
The Warriors are now 4-5 in league play and 10-11 overall.
The Warriors are still fighting for a playoff spot with three CCL games remaining, starting with a home game against Hueneme on Monday.
Santa Paula remains undefeated at 9-0 in CCL play, and 12-8 overall.
Hueneme is 0-9 in league play and 1-21 overall.
Templeton 51, Santa Ynez 41
The Santa Ynez girls lost an Ocean League game to Templeton, 51-41, on Thursday.
Helina Pecile led the Pirates with 11 points and 20 rebounds. Rylan Agin and Lexi Molera each had eight points, with Agin adding five rebounds. Elena Sleiman contributed four points, five rebounds, four assists and four steals.
“Our four freshmen were the leaders with the stats tonight,” Santa Ynez coach Jennifer Rasmussen said. “We are a young team and working on consistency and focus throughout a game.”