The Grantsville High School girls basketball team fought back from an 13-point half-time deficit to defeat the Emery High School Spartans on the road in Castle Dale Tuesday night and continue their winning streak.

Kylie Erickson lead all scores with 21 points including eight in the fourth quarter to boost the Cowgirls to a 54-52 win, extending their undefeated pre-season record to 11-0.

"I felt that Kylie really stepped it up for us in the second half," said GHS head coach Kenzie Netwon. "She went eight for eight from the free throw line. She acted like they were nothing and put them in."

After an 11-11 first quarter tie, the Lady Spartans jumped to a 33-20 lead by half-time. The Cowgirls battled back in the third and fourth quarters scoring 13 and 21 points respectively.

But it was the 21-point fourth quarter the helped the Cowgirls beat the Lady Spartans in a nail-biting ending. With three seconds left on the clock and tied at 52, Rachel Topham received the in-bound pass and scored the game-winning shot.

"It was an emotional game and they were extremely happy," Newton said. "Getting wins with game-winning shots really brings the team together. It may not be your best player, but it's a role player who's doing her job to win."

During half-time Newton said her players were anxious to get back into the game. They've enjoyed the winning feeling during the pre-season.

"They realized at half-time that we have to come out and take care of the basketball which always helps with momentum," Newton said. "The girls have go the desire that they want to win. They aren't satisfied with getting a loss after being 10-0."

Other contributors to the Cowgirl win were Kelsi Wells who added 12 points to the total. Marrissa Robbins, Ashley Bartlett and Sammie Jensen also scored for GHS.

"The girls have really good chemistry," Newton said. "They all have the same goal: to get a win for the team. They aren't selfish at all."

The Cowgirls will take their winning streak with them as the enter Region 11 play against Logan on the road Jan. 3.

Missy Thompson: missy@tooeletranscript.com