BINGHAMTON – The last time Norwich was held under 40 points was the finals of the Section IV Class B tournament almost a year ago when Seton Catholic Central topped the Purple Tornado.

Johnson City nearly mirrored that defensive performance, and pulled away in the second half to down the Purple Tornado, 51-35, Friday night at Binghamton High School.

Up for grabs was the STAC Central Division title, and Johnson City came from behind for the title forcing a tie-breaking game after winning at Norwich last Wednesday night. The Wildcats now play Union-Endicott in the Southern Tier Athletic Conference playoffs.

“Our effort, intensity, and toughness were outstanding, and we battled the whole way,” said Norwich coach Mark Abbott. “Johnson City is just a talented team that has played extremely well against us the last two times we’ve played them.”

Johnson City knew Norwich would make adjustments from the Wednesday night game in which it won, 64-54. In that contest, senior Rashawn Powell scored 25 points and Troy Robinson added 17.

Powell had just two points in the first half on two free throws, while Robinson scored four. Still, Johnson City managed to lead 21-17 finishing the final two minutes of the first half on a 10-0 run.