GULF SHORES, Alabama – The Gulf Shores Lady Dolphins built a big lead early and held on late to beat rival Spanish Fort 47-44 in 5A Area 2 play on Friday in “The Tank” at Gulf Shores High School.

Gulf Shores jumped out to an 18-7 lead in the first period, and extended that lead to 29-14 by the half. Spanish Fort closed the gap to 37-30 by the end of the third period. Spanish Fort pulled within three points at 39-36 before Hannah Wilson’s basket, followed by a free throw and three-pointer from Caroline Tilley gave Gulf Shores a 45-36 lead with just over 3 minutes to play.

Spanish Fort had a chance to tie the game after Elaine Wood’s three-pointer with 45 seconds left followed by Sami Pote’s basket with nine seconds remaining pulled the Toros within three at 47-44. Spanish Fort’s shot at the buzzer missed, and the Lady Dolphins captured their first Area 2 win of the season.

“This is the way we should have been playing all year long,” Gulf Shores head coach Austin Boyd said. “We played with heart and we pulled it out. I’m proud of them, especially beating our biggest rival.”

Tilley led all scorers with 17 points and Wilson added 10. Wood led the Lady Toros with 13 points, while India James scored 11 in the loss.

“They have been fighting some mental issues and I think we are over that,” Boyd said. “Caroline (Tilley) hit some big shots and Hannah Wilson came up big tonight. It’s been a long time coming. It was a team effort, everybody did their part. I’m proud of them.”

Gulf Shores visits Theodore on Tuesday and visits BC Rain in area play next Friday. Spanish Fort visits BC Rain on Tuesday and plays at Williamson on Friday.