Kirin, Spence keys for Tigers

Jon Ballard led Fitch in the 87-80 loss. Youngstown Christian, West Branch and Mathews were also winners.

AUSTINTOWN — Jared Kirin, a 6-foot-6, senior scored 26 points and Kyle Spence added 23 for Howland, which defeated Austintown Fitch, 87-80, in the season opener for both teams Friday night.

The Tigers outscored the Falcons 24-17 in the fourth quarter.

T.J. Lanier and Tyler Scott added 12 and 11 points, respectively, for the Tigers. Jon Ballard led the Falcons with 17 points. Matt O’Brien added 11 points and Eric Braxton scored 10.

Youngstown Christian 69, Heartland Christian 54

YOUNGSTOWN — Olonzo Johnson scored 20 points and Torrell Grier tacked on 12 points more for the Eagles who led 49-25 entering the fourth quarter.

Anthony Walker added 11 points and seven rebounds for Youngstown Christian.

Kyle Knepper, Nate Hall and Trey Walker scored 11, 11 and 10 points, respectively, for Heartland Christian.

West Branch 67, United 36

BELOIT — Evan Campbell scord 16 points while Chance Young added 12 and Greg Hanlon 11 to lead West Branch, which surged in the second half to outscore United by 43-17 to roll to the win.

Jason Ramus scored 11 points to lead United, which led 13-11 after the first period before falling behind.

Mathews 79, Bristol 44

VIENNA — Chris Morgan scored 19 points to lead Mathews over Bristol.

The Mustangs blew open the game with a 33-11 scoring advantage in the third quarter of the Northeastern Athletic Conference opener.

Shane Link added 15 points, Collin Bowser 14 and Seth Paddock 11 to bolster the Mustangs.

John Evans tallied 16 points to lead Bristol.

In another game, East Palestine defeated Warren JFK, 46-43. Details of the game were not reported.