by Austin Marsman

The Martin girls’ basketball team Friday lost a 53-45 decision to Coloma.

The score remained close until the fourth quarter in the non-league SAC contest when the Comets unleashed speed and skill at the free throw line to outscore the Lady Clippers by eight points.

Coming off a win at Zion Christian and a close loss to Watervliet, the Lady Clippers felt energized heading into the showdown with Coloma. The Comets were on top, 22 to 21, at the half

It could be said that the game came down to free throws. Coloma had a 100 percent success rate at the line, with most shots in the final minutes of the game. Martin’s girls only made 44 percent of their free throws, missing 6 points.

Morgan Wagner led the Comets with 21 points. Faith Guritz notched 15 to lead Martin. Kiaya Warner hustled for 10 points and her sister, a freshman, Briana contributed 9.

The loss puts Martin at an even 3-3 record heading into its last game before Christmas break. The Lady Clippers will be host to Delton, their neighbor and rival, on Tuesday.