Athens’ LeCresha Horton (5) dribbles the ball down court in a recent game against Hartselle. The Lady Eagles improved to 20-6 on Monday after a win over Decatur.

Eddie Murphree knew it would take a good effort by his Athens team Tuesday night to come away with a win at Decatur High.

He got it.

Trailing by one at halftime, the Lady Golden Eagles set the pace during the third quarter, outscoring the Lady Red Raiders 15-9. The home team made a comeback in the fourth, but Athens managed to hold on for a 49-46 win.

The victory avenged a 68-48 home loss to Decatur earlier in the season.

“They played with a lot of confidence and I think that was the difference,” Murphree said. “Decatur’s got a fine ball club. I knew we were going to have to give a good effort to come away on top.”

LeCresha Horton paced the Lady Golden Eagles (20-6) with 19 points. Ashley Jackson tossed in 12 points and recorded eight rebounds. Elizabeth Schexnayder netted seven points and pulled down nine rebounds, while Amelia Ridgeway contributed six points and eight rebounds.

In the varsity boys’ game, Athens fell 64-48.

Trey Brooks led the Golden Eagles with 25 points and four rebounds. Chris Cain added 10 points.