BELHAVEN – Bethel Christian Academy got the season started off on the right foot here Thursday night.

The Lady Eagles jumped out to an early lead and never looked back as they downed Pungo Christian Academy 40-34 in a prep basketball game.

Bethel led 13-4 after the first quarter and then took a 25-13 advantage into the locker room at halftime. The Lady Eagles led 32-21 after three quarters and then held off the Lady Raiders challenge to win by six.

Jessica Howerton finished a single point away from a double-double as she had nine points and 15 rebounds during the night. She added four blocks and one steal.

Elizabeth Farmer led Bethel on the offensive end, scoring 14 points. She added a steal as well. Kelsie Conner chipped in six points for the Lady Eagles and added six boards, one block and a steal.

Sophomore Kristen Adams added four points, two rebounds and a steal while Charitee Dunlow contributed 14 rebounds, three points and two steals. Alyssa Fairless rounded out the effort with four boards, two points and a steal.

Allison Armstrong led Pungo’s effort with1 5 points while Jenna Sadler added nine and Melanie Harris had seven.

Bethel improved to 1-0 heading into Monday night’s rematch with PCA which will be held at Ridgecroft School in the opening round of the Lt. Nick Brantley Scholarship Tournament.