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Reds prevail in non-league battle, hold off Turlock Christian 41-34
ghs girls bball 12-3
Gustine’s #5 Gwendolyn Barcelos makes a fast break during the contest against Turlock Christian on Nov. 25 in the away game. - photo by La_lumiere_art_and_photography

The Gustine Reds varsity girls’ basketball team secured a tough non-league victory on Nov. 25, overcoming a mid-game surge by the Turlock Christian Eagles to win 41-34.

The Reds, playing their first non-league opponent of the season, relied on clutch shooting in the second half to move past a determined TC squad.

Gustine roared out of the gate in the first period, quickly establishing control on both ends of the floor. Guard Gwendolyn Barcelos was instrumental, contributing five early layups and capping the period with a decisive steal and two points.

The strong inside game was complemented by solid rebounding from Martha Torres, who found Barcelos for another quick two. The Reds’ momentum was relentless and finished the quarter leading 17-12.

However, the second period proved to be a challenging one for the Reds. TC ramped up their defensive pressure, and there was a crucial defensive rebound, the period belonged to the Eagles. TC mounted a crucial 8-point scoring run, wiping out the Reds’ lead. At the halftime buzzer, the score was tied 20-20, neutralizing the strong start by Gustine.

The momentum carried over for TC into the third quarter, allowing them to seize an early four-point lead. The Reds, however, refused to break. They answered immediately with a basket, and Barcelos tied the game back up at 24-all with an aggressive drive. The decisive action came moments later with the clutch performance of No. 3. The guard drained back-to-back three-pointers, igniting the Gustine bench and reclaiming the lead. By the close of the third, Gustine was back on top, 30-27.

The fourth period saw a tight battle for control. Barcelos continued to pressure the defense, scoring two early baskets, but TC kept the game close, pulling within a single point with 3:47 left on the clock.

Gustine finished strong, utilizing their speed and composure under pressure. No. 15 added a critical two points, followed by yet another basket from the high-scoring Barcelos, extending the lead to 36-33. The final minutes saw Torres hit a huge three-pointer, and Barcelos put the final touches on the scoreboard, securing the Gustine Reds’ 41-34 victory.

Gustine and Orestimba hit the court on Monday (after press time). The Reds’ next game will be against Millenium High in Tracy on Dec. 9. Tip off is at 6 p.m.