Florala won its first game of the season in a 48-38 victory over Rocky Bayou, Fla., on Friday night at home.

The Wildcats led throughout the first half, but squandered it in the third period, where the players “weathered their own storm,” FHS coach Daniel Allison said.

Rocky Bayou made a run in the third period and took a three-point lead.

“We handled the pressure and I’m just proud of everybody and the way they played tonight,” Allison said.

Florala led 13-7 after the first period and 19-11 at halftime.

At the end of the third period, the Wildcats (1-8) led 32-29.

The Wildcats were led by John Bess, who had 13 points. Tamaris Jamison chipped in 12 points, and Austin McNeill had nine points. Gavin McCurley added eight points.

Allison said it felt good to get the win.

“After (Thursday) night’s game against Georgiana, what we talked about before the game was that we had to come out with energy,” he said. “We came out and established a lead from the beginning. We played under control.”

Allison said players stepped up when they needed to in the win.

“McCurley and Jamison stepped up and did some real good things for us,” he said. “We got some energy with that group. It just seemed to turn the tide. Rocky Bayou didn’t have an answer for us.”

Additionally, Allison gave a shout out to Bess, who drained 3-of-5 free throws down the stretch to secure the victory.

Florala is back in action at Red Level on Jan. 3.