SUNSHINE &045; Monday night’s match-up between John Essex and Akron High Schools started in traditional John Essex fashion; no one could tell the outcome based on the first period of play.

Despite numerous penalties, the JEHS pulled off a win, 43-36.

The Lady Hornets came out testing the water, and allowed Akron to lead at the end of the first period, 8-6.

Melita Adams put the Hornets on top with 6:10 left in the second period, and after they took the lead, they never looked back.

As the teams hit the locker rooms, JEHS was on top, 21-12.

Starting the third period, neither team scored until Akron found the net with 4:53 remaining in stanza. With that newfound hope, Akron attempted to rekindle their flame and gave JEHS a run for their money, but due to intentional penalties, the Hornets kept the advantage through free-throws.

Leading the Hornets in points for the night was Melita Adams with 11, followed by Nyeshia Daniels with 10 and Brittany Gray with 9.

John Essex had 20 turnovers due to penalties.

With that win, the Hornets advance to play Linden on Thursday at 5 p.m. at Sunshine.