ORANGE PARK – Fleming Island introduced a 2-1-2 zone defense last night to prevent being exposed in the middle. That lasted all of three minutes after Orange Park connected on four 3-pointers to grab an early 12-11 lead.

“That was the first time we played that zone all season,” said Fleming Island head coach Joey Williams. “We were worried that opponents were getting too many points in the paint.”

The Golden Eagles switched to a 3-2 zone, and went on a 20-5 run, to close out the opening half and cruise to a 60-40 victory over Orange Park Friday night at Orange Park.

Junior guard Tia Robinson scored a game high 19 points, grabbed seven rebounds and registered four steals to lead the Golden Eagles (14-3) balanced scoring attach which featured four girls scoring in double figures.

Aubrey Burke added 15 points, Hope Rozier had 11 points while Moriah Martin had 11 points including three 3-pointers. Martin was making her first start of the season for Fleming Island.

“We stated Moriah because we wanted to spread the floor, said Williams, whose team made six 3-pointers for the game. “We wanted to spread the court and wear them down on defense.

The Raiders (11-4) connected on seven 3-pointers for the game. Harlee Sharp had two 3’s while Dyronna Harris added three 3’s and scored a team high 11 points.

Fleming Island mixed up their defense all night throwing a 3-2 zone and straight man to man while forcing 14 turnovers which led to easy transition baskets.

“We want to create offensive opportunities off of our defense,” said Williams. “We did a good job doing that tonight.”

Sophomore center Tori Cole added six points and grabbed a game-high 13 rebounds for Orange Park.

“I told the girls that we have a bullseye on our backs because we went to the final four last year, said Williams. “Theses girls all know each other from AAU and they see each other at the malls. I thought they did a good job handling the rivalry game tonight.”