The Goshen Eagles closed out area play undefeated on Monday and clenched the area championship with a 61-56 win over Central.

“We played a little sloppy,” said Eagles head coach Ethan Carroll. “We had 20 turnovers, but we rose to the occasion in the fourth quarter. Overall it’s great to win area in the regular season, but now it’s time to really focus on our goals for the season.”

After Central took a 15-14 lead into the second quarter, the Eagles battled back and took a 43-37 lead at the half.

Despite the turnovers and sloppy play, the Eagles were able to hold on to the lead in the second half and entered the fourth quarter with a 42-41 lead. The Eagles scored 19 points, while the defense came alive to shut down Central’s offense.

Zack Alford led the Eagles with 22 points, Michael Hollis also finished in double figures with 14 points.