OUT-WRESTLING THE RUSTLERS

In an Orange Empire Conference home-game against Golden West College Wednesday night, FC topped the Rustlers 76-67.

Against the No. 2 team in the state in Orange Coast last Friday, the Hornets showed that they can play with any team pushing the Pirates to overtime before falling 96-94. As a team, FC shot 44.4% and out-rebounded OCC 47-39.

Tonight's game had the Hornets hitting shots early taking a 16-6 lead over the 11-6 Rustlers that was capped off by a jumper by Bri Landeros (2:34). Golden West pushed back getting within six points by the of the first quarter at 16-10. 

By the five-minute mark in the second quarter, FC maintained a 28-21 lead thanks to a jumper by Tia Jaquias. From there, the Hornets took charge going on a 13-8 run ending the first half with a healthy 41-29 lead.

The third quarter belonged to Fullerton as the team snuck in its largest lead of the game of 17 points (57-40) that was finished off by a free throw by Tia Jaquias.

By the start of the fourth quarter, FC held a 57-46 lead with the Rustlers looking to get back in the game. Holding a ten point lead throughout most of the quarter, the Hornets let  Golden West back with five points (66-61) with two minutes left in the game. It was Toni Ballestero's three-pointer from the wing that sealed the game for the Hornets.

Leading FC in scoring was Tia Jaquias with 17 points. She also contributed 7 assists and had 4 rebounds. Angela Zendejas  had a big nght with a double-double (16 points and 14 rebounds). Bri Landeros also scored 16 points and brought down 6 rebounds. Toni Ballestero put up 9 points and Jessica Jones scored 7 points with 6 rebounds.

Up Next: Fullerton (10-8 overall, 1-1 OEC) will try and stay in the win column when they travel to Santa Ana College this Friday, January 13th for another OEC matchup. Game time is at 6:00 pm.