ROCKY MOUNT – A valiant effort fell short here Wednesday night.

The Lady Bears traveled to Rocky Mount High School and came up short 59-50 due to a fourth quarter run by the Lady Gryphons.

HCHS trailed 18-16 after one quarter, but rallied to take a 28-23 halftime lead. They led 36-35 after three quarters, but Rocky Mount outscored the Bears 24-14 in the final period.

“Brandi Burden was outstanding along with the other ladies,” second-year HCHS skipper Justin Frederes said. “I’m very proud of the ladies. They really fought hard and played until the end.”

Burden had an outstanding night for the Bears, putting up 22 during the event. She was the only Hertford County player in double figures, however.

Briante Bond scored eight as did Sherniece Futrell and Camaryn Jones checked in with seven points. Takia Williams (3) and Lerinda Fennell (2) rounded out the scoring.

The loss dropped the Lady Bears to 7-4 overall. They will meet rival Bertie High School on January 14.