Cypress Defeats Irvine Valley, 75-69

For most of the second half, Cypress appeared ready to end its four-game losing streak going away.

However, the Chargers stumbled down the stretch before defeating Irvine Valley, 75-69, in an Orange Empire Conference men’s basketball game Friday at Cypress.

Jeff Rutter (15 points) made a three-pointer with 4 minutes 35 seconds left to put Cypress up, 66-50. Irvine Valley then picked up its defensive pressure and rallied to get as close as three, 67-64, when Leon Green made a three-point basket with 1:35 left in the game.

Cypress (10-13, 2-4 in conference play) was able to maintain its lead in the final two minutes by making seven of 10 free throws, including three by reserve Paul Pappas.

Cypress trailed for much of the first half but took the lead in the final minute and led at the break, 34-33. David Neal led Cypress in the second half by scoring nine of his 11 points. He also contributed on defense, holding Josh Porter to seven points, half his average.

Jason Krauss had 17 points for Cypress. Brandon Hearvey had 19 for Irvine Valley (11-12, 2-4), which has lost two in row.