For the second time in eight days, the Fayette boys defeated Linn, this time by a score of 45-35, to earn seventh place in the Harrisburg Tournament.

Fayette has beaten Linn for both of its wins so far in this rebuilding season.

Junior guard Charles Alexander started the game hot, hitting a 3-pointer shortly after the tip-off. He then drew the whistle on another 3-point attempt, sinking two of three foul shots to give the Falcons a quick 5-0 lead. 

Fayette’s full-court press forced several Linn turnovers. Senior Kaleb Friebe scored the quarter’s final four points for the Falcons, who clung to a 9-7 lead after the first period.

“It’s interesting playing a team in back-to-back weeks,” said Fayette coach Brandon Friebe. “Both teams made some adjustments and are facing some sickness as well. We did what we needed to, and we’re learning how to win games.”

Friebe hit a three to start the second period, which Linn quickly answered to stay within two points. The Falcons’ trapping defense continued to bother Linn, leading to several transition baskets as Fayette opened up a 19-12 lead at the half.

Linn opened the third quarter with a three, but the Falcon defense went into lockdown and never allowed another made shot from the field until the fourth quarter. Fayette continued its methodic attack, increasing the lead to 32-19 at the end of the third quarter and held on in the fourth, earning the Falcons’ second victory.

“I need to give a huge shout-out to our bench guys. Tommy Elliot, Thad Quint, Micah Estes, and Jaron Cross did an incredible job, and we don’t win that game tonight if they don’t come in and perform like they did,” said Coach Friebe. “Our entire bench did great tonight, and I’m very proud of them.”

Alexander led the charge for the Falcons, scoring 18 points. Friebe and freshman Blake Braden added 10 each for the Falcons.

Fayette fell to longtime former Lewis & Clark rival Salisbury on Monday, 67-30 to sink to 2-15 on the season. On Tuesday, the Falcons faced a new conference foe, Russellville (12-6), at home after the Advertiser had gone to press. They stay home to host Central State 8 favorite Eugene, currently ranked third in Class 2, at home on Friday for the annual Courtwarming game.