The Italy Gladiators had a warm-up game with Crossroads Friday night in preparation for their playoff game to be held on Monday night in West, Texas at 7:00 p.m. against Chilton.

Italy jumped out to an early lead but Crossroads hung tough and shot their way back into the match. Crossroads managed to break the Gladiators press defense more times than not, but Italy held on to the 17-15 lead after the 1st period.

Italy fell behind going into the break 33-29 thanks to an impressive 16-point first half performance by #1 John Talley of Crossroads.

Halftime

Italy was unable to recapture the lead before the end of the 3rd period as Crossroads’ speed and athleticism put the Gladiators through a work out. If Italy’s #11 Jasenio Anderson’s ankle issue wasn’t concern enough for the Gladiators, Heath Clemons seemed to be struggling with a sore ankle of his own and had to exit the game in the 2nd half.

Despite a Jasenio Anderson 3-pointer, Crossroads added to their 1st half advantage and took a solid lead into the final period 49-36.

In the 4th, Italy made a push to overtake Crossroads before the final buzzer. Italy’s #10 John Isaac put in 9-points and Jasenio Anderson was good for 8-points. However, Crossroads showed great skill from the free throw line which proved to be the difference and were able to hold-off the Gladiators’ comeback effort winning 67-61.

Remember, Gladiator Fans, Italy plays tonight in West, at the West High School Gymnasium for the Bi-District Championship at 7:00 p.m. against Chilton. Let’s all show our support. Bring a sign, pom-poms, megaphones or anything else you think would help fire-up the team.

GO GLADIATORS!

Italy Scoring:
Heath Clemons #2, 5-points (one 3-pointer)
Oscar Gonzalez #3, 2-points
Dontavius Clemons #5, 1-point
John Isaac #10, 20-points
Jasenio Anderson #11, 18-points (one 3-pointer)
Desmond Anderson #15, 3-points (one 3-pointer)
Darrin Moore #33, 12-points (one 3-pointer)