Fairview High connected on just enough free throws down the stretch to earn a 44-41 victory over Cullman Thursday night.

The Bearcats owned a 40-36 lead with around three minutes left and the Aggies (5-3) then missed 3-of-4 from the charity stripe.

“We kind of shut down offensively in the second half,” Fairview coach Greg Boatright said. “A lot of that goes to the credit of Cullman’s defense, but our kids kept fighting and scratching and came away with a win.”

A field goal by Ryan Parker brought Fairview to within one and on Cullman’s ensuing possession, the Aggies forced a turnover under the Bearcats basket and Parker sank two free throws for a 41-40 lead.

In the waning seconds, Cullman attempted several shots but managed only one free throw.

A 3-point attempt that would’ve forced a tie at the buzzer rimmed out.

The game was close throughout. At the breaks, the Aggies led 14-13, 28-22 and 32-30.

“To win, we have to play defense all out, as hard as we can,” Boatright said. “And that’s what we did tonight.

Parker led Fairview with 14 points. Nathan Ring scored 12 and Luke Bailey added nine.

For Cullman, Jordan Vass scored 16 and Casey Brown netted 10.

Stan Veitch can be reached at 256-734-2131, ext. 258 or at stanv@cullmantimes.com.