Matt Gendusa scores 19 points in regional win on Monday

Matt Gendusa warms his hands for a hot night of shooting. (Photo submitted)

ASHTON — Another thrilling finish for the matchup between AFC and Milledgeville goes down to the final possessions. For the third time this season, the outcome was decided by less than five points, as the Raiders held on for a 61-57 victory in the NUIC East rivals’ first-round Class 1A Polo Regional matchup.

The season’s rubber match was highlighted by Matt Gendusa who scored 19 points to lead AFC to a win. Gendusa hit four three 3-pointers on the night and helped kick-start AFC to a 16-10 first quarter lead by hitting three of those early.

The Missiles fought back in the second quarter and claimed the lead 31-30 at halftime. In a game that saw 16 lead changes, AFC reclaimed the third quarter lead 45-44 and held on for the 61-57 victory.

Joining Gendusa in leading scorers was Bret Gittleson with 11 points, Graye Freeman with nine and Troy Mairs with eight points. Rebounding leaders were Ermir Ramadani with eight and Mairs with seven. Paul Rod led in steals with four and Nick McClanahan swiped three.

The win brings the Raiders season record to 10-18 and they play in the semifinals Wednesday against Eastland at 6 p.m. in Polo.