It’s not basketball season yet, but First Presbyterian Christian Academy certainly put up points Friday like it is.

However, the Highlanders’ 36 points they put on the scoreboard were not enough against Bethlehem Christian Academy as the Knights claimed a 39-36 win at Long Bell Stadium.

Both team scored fast and often, which gave the Highlanders a chance to take the game in the final minutes of the game, but the Knights were able to hold on for the victory.

“Very competitive game, nip and tuck all the way down to the wire, had a chance at the end with two minutes and some change to go, just couldn’t seal the deal,” FPCA coach Terry Middleton said.

The players who stood out for FPCA (1-6) on Friday were Jamison Golson, Jimmy Oyang and Josh Armour, according to Middleton.

With three games left in the regular season, the Highlanders’ schedule does not get any easier. Next Saturday, FPCA opens region play against defending Georgia Independent Schools Association AA state champion Memorial Day in Garden City for the Matadors’ homecoming game. FPCA hosts Robert Toombs Christian Academy the next week. Memorial Day edged Toombs 42-41 on Oct. 1 in Lyons in the first GISA appearance on WSAV’s Thursday Night Blitz.

The Highlanders finish the regular season against David Emanuel Academy.