By MAURICE SINGLETON/Sports Writer

GULFPORT — Gulfport took the lead on their opening possession against Bayshore Christian of Fairhope, Alabama, and they rolled from that point, never surrendering the lead in their 68-12 win in the final game of the night in the Holiday Classic on Thursday.

The Eagles (1-8) were clearly no match for the Admirals who would reach their 15th win of the season without any losses. The Admirals set the tone early, forcing seven turnovers on their way to a 23-7 lead at the end of the first quarter.

The Eagles would score only 5 points over the remaining three quarters, thanks in part to a running clock in the fourth period.

“We just played hard,” said Admirals coach Brian Butler. “We played hard and tried to stay disciplined.

“We never overlook anybody,” said Butler. “But we wanted to make sure that we came out here be prepared like we were, and play as hard as possible, take care of business like we’re supposed to, and prepare ourselves for tomorrow.”

Gulfport clearly out-manned Bayshore, so Butler played his full roster, substituting regularly, giving all of his players a chance to gain game experience.

One of the highlights of the night came on a Dillan McInnis steal and break away for a dunk in the first quarter. It was a real treat for the home fans. The dunk gave the Admirals a 15-3 lead.

Tamis Boykin led the Admirals with 10 points. Denzel Jackson had 9 points – all in the first half. Shawnjeohn Burks finished with 7 points, and McInnis finished with 6 points.

Bynum led Bayshore with 6 points.

Gulfport will take on Madison Central (10-4) at 7:30 on Friday night. The winner plays in the championship game on Saturday.

Bayshore will play Pass Christian at 4:30 on Friday in a consolation game match-up.