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The Eagles now sport a 13-5 overall record and stand at 11-4 in the Ski Valley Conference.

Bellaire coach George Mason cited his team's defensive play as a key factor in two wins last week.

"Our defense is playing well lately,"said Mason. "We're limiting them to one shot at the basket and we're not giving them any second chances.Ó That defense held Mancelona to just two points in the first quarter and six in the second as the Lady Eagles jumped out to a 25-8 half time lead.

Bellaire led 34-18 at the end of three quarters and out pointed the visitors 14-8 in the final period.

"We got off to a good lead and we were able to hold it until the end of the game,"said Mason.

Molly Poel led Bellaire with 15 points, 7 rebounds and 3 steals, while Logan Edgecomb had 15 points, 6 boards and 2 steals.

Sheri Smith added 8 points and Megan Comben contributed with 4 points, 5 rebounds and 3 steals.

Lisa Luton (11 points) and Courtney Chapman (7 points) led Mancelona. Bellaire 46,

Gaylord St. Mary 44

Poel and Comben sank two free throws each in the closing minute to lift Bellaire to a 46-44 conference win over Gaylord St. Mary on Tuesday, Feb. 5.

The Snowbirds led the Eagles 43-42 with 1:05 remaining on the clock before the two fouls, sandwiched around a missed St. Mary's shot, proved to be the difference in the end.

The two teams were tied 32-32 going into the fourth quarter.

Poel led all scorers with 27 points and added 5 rebounds, 2 assists and 3 steals. Edgecomb chipped in with 7 points and 8 boards. Kara Liverance added 6 assists and 2 steals.

"I thought we played really well,"said Mason. "Our turnovers were way down and we shot the ball well. We were 70 percent from the free throw line.Ó

Gaylord St. Mary was paced by Mette Forcier (15 points), Mariah Beyer (10 points) and Brittany Oehlers (10 points).

Bellaire will close out the regular season at home against Elk Rapids on Thursday, Feb. 14.