A big third quarter was a key factor in the Lady Marlins area win over Brackett High School on Friday, Feb. 18, in Charlotte.

The win meant the Lady Marlin would play at least one more game, and for that, the Lady Marlins returned to Charlotte on Tuesday, Feb. 22, to take on Center Point. At stake is the regional quarterfinal title and the right to keep playing.

Lady Marlin coach Stephanie Cowen said the Lady Marlins were a changed team in the game against Brackett from the team they were in the first round of play.

Against Brackett, the Lady Marlins “showed up ready to take on what we knew would be a big challenge.”

“Brackett was very quick, and they play at a pace we don’t usually see too much of in our preseason,” Cowen said.

Savanna Nixon’s offense keyed the start of the game, and Tarryn Murray came through with some “big baskets throughout the entire game,” Cowen said.

Anna Roberson and Chelsea Perez “had big assignments and did a great job,” on the defensive side, Cowen added.

Another key in the win was rebounding, led by Kelsey Ortize with a team high of 10 rebounds.

Brackett is known for big play in the third quarter, and the Lady Marlins had a plan for that.

“We talked about not letting them take over in that period. Instead our kids came out and won the third period, 18-11, and I think that was one of the biggest contributors to the win,” Cowen said.

“I love the way different kids are stepping up for us every night,” Cowen said.

The win gave the Lady Malrins a 22-11 season record.

Leading Scorers: Tarryn Murray, 20; Savanna Nixon, 10; Anna Roberson, 4; Savannah Ortiz, 4; Kelsey Ortiz, 3; Chelsea Perez, 2; Kalani Balcom, 2;