Free throws and post buckets usually tell the story of a gritty, hard fought game. But in Colfax on Thursday, it was simply a tale of two halves.

The Tigerhawks of Colfax-Mingo outlasted the Saydel Eagles (1-16), 73-58, in a marathon second half that included over 30 fouls and just as many combined free throw attempts.

“The free throw game can be a big factor in a lot of games, particularly when you’re shooting two instead of the one-and-one, it allows our guys to relax a little knowing they have two shots," Colfax coach John Borts said. "(Austin) Yoakum knocked down key free throws that helped seal things up. Overall, it was a good team win.”

The game started with some good physical play inside. The entire first half was back and forth as neither team could secure a significant edge, much of this had to do with outside shooting.

Saydel came out on fire from beyond the arch. Junior Alex Gustafson hit five of his six three point attempts in the first half to lead a tremendous team shooting performance in the first half. Good ball movement and mid-range shooting by senior Connor Hainer kept the Tigerhawks close.

More threes by Saydel senior BJ Freeman and junior Kyle Walter gave the Eagles a 33-30 halftime lead.