CINCINNATI — Ross had a big lead early Friday night at Winton Woods, but the Warriors got turned around before halftime and went on to post a 54-50 Fort Ancient Valley Conference West Division win.

Ross (4-1, 1-1 FAVC West) led 17-9 after the first quarter and lengthened that to 26-14 with 3:52 left in the first half.

The Warriors, however, lived up to their nickname as they went on a tear in the closing minutes of the second quarter, getting to within 26-25.

“I thought coming in we had a great game plan and the guys played great defense and grabbed rebounds,” Ross coach Matt Wilhelm said of the early part of the game. “They adjusted and got us out of our rhythm. Our kids fought. They are warriors; tough, tough kids.”

Winton Woods (3-1, 1-1) has only three seniors on its roster, and only one actually played. Junior Trent Donald led all players with 21 points. Sophomore Martin Jones was the only other Winton Woods player in double figures with 16, including three treys.

“I think a lot of people will be surprised what we can do defensively (this season),” Winton Woods coach Donnie Gillespie said. “In the third quarter, both teams made big plays. Martin Jones came off the bench and goes deep outside.”

Ross got 14 points from senior Max Mischkulnig. The Rams also had double figures from sophomore Blake Ballard, whose 11 points included one trey and four free throws.

“I feel we let one slip away,” Wilhelm said. “We will see them again. They have to come back to our place. They are a good team, one of the best in the city.”

Ross returns to action Friday at home against Monroe.