Early foul problems and a 4A John Paul II High School team that used talent, height and athleticism combined to hand the Marlins a 53- 65 defeat in Corpus Christi on Friday, Jan. 6.

Coach Joe Kocurek said the Marlins fell b ehind early, and though they cut their deficit to five points several times during the game, they could never quite catch up. Following the loss, the Marlins slipped two positions to 11th in the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches poll for 1A teams.

Leading scorer Tyler Pate once again topp ed the Marlins shooters with 32 points, including five 3- pointers.

“ The team continued to play well, we are just missing too many open shots from our other shooters,” Kocurek said. “ Pate has been very consistent, but when he delivers ( passes) to our other scorers, we are kind of in a drought right now.”

Still, Storm Bales hit 11 points, including one 3- pointer, Chase Gustafson put in three, Jake Roberts, Caleb Rogers and Austin Scott each had two and Andrew Follett hit one to round out the scoring.

As well as scoring, Bales put together a “very strong rebounding game,” and Roberts helped on the boards as well, Kocurek said.

Gustafson led the defense as the halfc ourt trap forced turnovers by the John Paul Centurions.

Kocurek said he’s pleased with the way the team has developed.

“ We are playing well and lo oking for ward to district,” he said.

The Marlins were scheduled to open that district play at home against Mathis on Tuesday, Jan. 10.