After overcoming rival Ripon Christian High in the CIF Sac-Joaquin Section semifinals on Wednesday, Turlock Christian fell to Brookside Christian High in the Division V Championship game 63-51 on Friday. The Eagles (26-3 overall) and Knights (25-4 overall) played a practically even game but Brookside pulled away midway through the fourth quarter to win its first section championship.

“We didn’t end the game the way we would have liked to,” TC’s head coach Edwin Santiago said. “Hats off to Brookside Christian though, they’re the champs.”

In the first quarter the two teams scored 14 points apiece. Each possession was crucial as the game was back and forth from the onset. TC, led by Halie Bergman (20 points, 13 rebounds) outscored Brookside in the second quarter, taking a 24-22 halftime lead.

TC’s offense stayed consistent in the third quarter but the Knights managed to take a one-point lead by the time the fourth quarter began. After holding Brookside’s offense back for three quarters TC was outscored 27-13 in the fourth. Eagle turnovers resulted in easy points for the Knights and the lack of shots on TC’s part spelled the end for its championship dream.

It was the second time in three years that TC failed to win the section championship.

“We made some costly turnovers,” Santiago said. “We’re dealing with the pain of the loss but there’s still a tomorrow.”

Despite the loss TC’s season is not over. The Eagles will take part in the State Playoffs on Wednesday although their opponent has yet to be determined.