By REED DESALVO

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — Andrew Ratcliff knew his squad had to play a complete game if they were to pull off an upset over unbeaten Simpson Academy Friday night.

Adams County Christian School managed to do just that.

Charged by the senior center’s 14 points and 13 rebounds, the Rebels knocked off the MAIS AAA top-ranked team 60-42 to advance to the District 4-AAA tournament title tonight.

“This game was a lot of fun,” Ratcliff said. “Nobody believed (we could beat Simpson). There is a lot of excitement right now, but we have to get ready for a district championship game (today).”

The Rebels (17-9) big run came in the third quarter when they outscored 21-11 to control a 45-26 lead heading to the final period.

“We talked about coming out and being aggressive,” ACCS coach Richy Spears said. “To not let them dictate what we do; let’s dictate what we do ourselves.”

Ratcliff proved not only effective on the glass, but also providing strong rim protection as he swatted away four shots.

“The refs let us a play a little more (Friday),” Ratcliff said. “I liked that, and I was able to control the paint a little better than the last two games.”

Not to be outdone, senior wing Devin Spear finished with a game-high 18 points, including a pair of 3-pointers.

“Devin plays with an attitude,” Ratcliff said. “Sometimes he gets a little too hyped up and shoots it a little too much, but he’s definitely the key to our offense. When he plays well, everybody plays well.”

The Rebels also received strong contributions throughout the lineup in addition to their senior playmakers. Point guard Sneh Patel registered ten points, and sophomore Darius Demby had five rebounds, four points and three steals.

“This (game) shows the potential of this team,” Spears said. “Andrew played more aggressive (Friday), Sneh played more aggressive, Demby and Julian (Wilson), that’s a pretty good mix. Then we have Jordan Wells coming in when someone gets in foul trouble.

ACCS led at the end of the first period 12-6 and again at the half 24-15.

Jacob Berry led Simpson (30-1) with a team-high 17 points.

Wilson recorded seven points for the Rebels while Brody Cole had six.

ACCS will square off against Cathedral High School at 7:45 p.m. tonight in the championship game.

“It’s exciting because it shows that we are capable of playing with the better teams,” Spears said. “I’m excited for the seniors to get the chance to play in the district championship at home.