NORTH MANCHESTER – It was all about defense Friday night for Whitko.

The Wildcats used defense and a strong second half to post a 37-29 Three Rivers Conference win over host Manchester in girls basketball action.

Whitko trailed 10-9 after the opening period before taking a 21-16 halftime lead on the Squires. The Wildcats then outscored the hosts 31-20 in the final half for the league win.

The outstanding duo of sophomores Ally Reiff and Brianna Cumberland led the way as Whitko improved to 5-3 overall and 2-0 in the TRC. Reiff scored a game-high 17 points and Cumberland finished with 13 for the winners.

Drew Thompson scored nine points to pace Manchester, which falls to 4-5 overall and 0-2 in the TRC.

Whitko won the junior varsity contest 46-39.

Whitko plays at West Noble Thursday. Manchester hosts Southwood on Dec. 20 in TRC play.