Panthers edge Eagles in district opener

The Canton Eagles got their first taste of District 14-4A play last week, taking on the Mabank Panthers in a matchup of teams that each qualified for the playoffs following the 2017-'18 season.

Mabank would ultimately prevail in a tightly contested contest, narrowly edging the Eagles 34-31.

Neither team could make much headway on the scoreboard in the opening quarter with the Panthrs taking a 5-2 lead after eight minutes of play.

The pace picked up somewhat in the second quarter as Canton battled back to tie the score at 11-11 entering the half.

Mabank pulled back in front by the end of the third quarter, scoring the last four points of the frame to take a slim 20-18 lead.

The Eagles fought back to pull to within 32-31 with less than a minute to play, but Mabank's Caleb Dally knocked home a pair of late free throws to give the Panthers the 34-31 victory.

Coach Justin Burk stated, "It was a really tough loss but a great game to be a part of. Proud of our fight, effort and toughness. We never gave up, never doubted ourselves. Thanks to Canton fans for showing up to Mabank in full force. Couldn’t ask for better support!"

In action earlier the same evening, the Canton JV earned a hard-fought 44-38 win and the freshman Eagles dominated 53-35.

Canton was scheduled to take on the Van Vandals Jan. 15 before traveling to Athens for a meeting with the Hornets Jan. 18. The Eagles play host to the rival Wills Point Tigers Jan. 22 and cap the first round of District 14-4A play on the road at Brownsboro Jan. 25.