ELMIRA –The Sutherlin girls basketball team led almost all the way in Tuesday night’s 45-41 victory over Elmira, but it was never comfortable.

The Bulldogs led 13-9 after a quarter and it was tied 24-24 at the half. Sutherlin then built a seven-point lead after three quarters.

The Falcons weren’t deterred and rallied to within four late in the game, but every time they did, the Bulldogs did just enough to stay ahead.

Then Elmira began fouling and their target was Taylor Mosher, who had the worst free-throw percentage on the team at 30 percent. Mosher came through for Sutherlin, making 4-of-8 and that was enough to help the Bulldogs hold on for the win.

Sutherlin (7-9, 2-0 Sky-Em) was led by sophomore Kiersten haines with 14, including one three-pointer. Sophomores Abby Masterfield and Carmen Ganger each had eight and freshman Paige Bailey added seven.

Elmira (6-8, 0-2 Sky-Em) got 14 from Carley Grosmiller and 11 from Jadenn Blunt before she fouled out with 1:25 to go.

Sutherlin visits Cottage Grove Friday night in their fourth-straight road game and third-straight league contest on the road.