Momentum switched sides throughout Conestoga’s district playoff showdown with Lower Merion on Feb. 20. The spirited Pioneers rallied from a 13-point halftime deficit to pull even in the third quarter before the Aces escaped with a 55-49 victory.

Sophomores Rowan Miller and Cory Hogan spearheaded the Stoga effort. Nine of Miller’s 17 points came from three-point range and he added 3 steals, 3 rebounds, and 2 steals. Hogan had 10 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists. While Ben Robinson contributed 9 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists and Sam Gibbs came through with 8 pounds, 2 rebounds, and 2 steals.

Trailing 32-19 at intermission, the Pioneers dominated the third stanza by a 22-10 margin. The score was tied at 36 and Lower Merion led 42-41 with eight minutes to play. The Aces won the fourth period with a narrow 13-8 edge.

“I couldn’t be more proud of our kids,” said coach Sean Forcine. “To be down by 13 at half, most teams would have crumbled at Lower Merion. Our kids came out and fought harder. I’m devastated that the ball didn’t bounce our way towards the end.”

Despite the defeat, the Pioneers remain in the running to reach the state tournament at District playbacks Friday at 7 p.m. when the Pioneers travel to Bensalem High School.