Unable to hold on to a double-digit second half lead, the Emery Spartans suffered an 85-72 loss to the South Sevier Rams Friday evening in Monroe.

Up 12 points midway through the third the quarter, the Spartans encountered problems offensively as the Rams went to a full court press. The majority of the team’s 19 total turnovers took place over the final 12 minutes of regulation, leading to a huge South Sevier run.

Eaton Gordon paced the Spartans in the loss with 23 points and five rebounds. Kyson Stilson provided a second option with 22 points and seven boards, while Cade Brazier ended with 12.

As a team the Spartans shot 47-percent from the field, and 38-percent from the three point line. South Sevier delivered similar statistics, ending 45-percent from the field and 27-percent from deep.

Caleb Barton poured in 23 points for the Rams, while Brodee Tebbs chipped in with 22. Tyson Chisholm scored 12, while Easton Hunt and Kaetz King combined to score 21.

Friday’s loss dips Emery to 3-5 in Region 15 play, giving them a half game lead over North Sanpete and San Juan for one of the final two playoff spots awarded to the region.

With only four regular season games remaining, the Spartans will return to the court on Wednesday with a road trip to North Sanpete. Emery won the first meeting 76-61 at home back on Jan. 10.

Live coverage of Wednesday’s region tilt is scheduled to begin on KOAL 107.3 FM and 750 AM at 6:30 p.m. with the Landon’s Diesel Service Pre-Game Show.