The Quitman Bulldogs fought and clawed their way back from an early 13-point deficit to Canton but fell in a close 58-52 game.

Canton scored the first 11 points and the hot Eagles led 24-11 after one quarter. Bulldog starting seniors Trey Berry, Jace Reid and Ben Burroughs sparked a comeback which saw the Bulldogs finally knot the score at 43-43 going into the final quarter.

The Bulldogs had no trouble breaking the Canton press in the final three quarters and did a great job on the boards. Reid came through with a double-double, 15 points and 10 rebounds, securing defensive rebounds as the ‘Dogs soared back into the game. 

Six Bulldogs saw action in the season opener. Joining Berry, Reid and Burroughs on the floor were senior Rylie Flanagan and juniors Aiden Corrior and Cody Hawley. Although Hawley did not score, he came off the bench and gave the Bulldogs a strong defensive lift.

Berry led the scoring with 21 points followed by Reid’s 15. Burroughs added 12 points hitting on four of seven long range three point shots while Corrior added four points. Reid added three triples and Berry one to give Quitman eight treys for the night. Reid also added six assists and five of 11 Quitman steals. Quitman committed 19 turnovers in the game.

Canton got a four point lead and went into a four-corner stalling offense forcing Quitman to foul to get the ball back. The Eagles hit on eight of nine free throws down the stretch to secure the win.

After games against Van on Monday and North Hopkins Tuesday, the Bulldogs will be home against Cumby Tuesday, Dec. 3, before heading west to Lipan Dec. 5-7 for tournament play against some of North Texas best teams.