The Oxford Blackhawks boys’ basketball team defeated Sidney 69-56 in Thursday’s MAC consolation game. (Photo by Morgan Golliver)

OXFORD – After a hard loss to Walton/Downsville in the MAC semifinals, the Oxford Blackhawks boys’ basketball team hosted Sidney in the MAC consolation round. Oxford won 69-56 as both teams now head into sectionals with Oxford in Class C and Sidney in Class B.

Both teams battled it out in a highly competitive and high scoring affair. Sidney had the lead after the first quarter but Oxford posted 20 points before the break. Oxford took a 31-28 lead at halftime, which gave them the boost they needed to keep them on track against a tough Sabers team.

Oxford stayed consistent in the second half with 19 points scored in both the third and fourth quarters to secure the victory in front of their home crowd for the final time this season.

Connor van der Sommen led all scorers with 23 points for the Sabers.