Friday night was senior night for the Pirates as they played host to the Hawks of Hoffman Estates. For their last conference game at home, the Palatine seniors left it all out on the court. Unfortunately, their all wasn’t enough as the Hawks escaped 58-54 victors.

The Pirates got off to an early lead sparked by senior Matt Ulrich (22 points) and took a 31-26 lead into halftime. The break allowed Hoffman to spark their game in the second half.

“We needed him to score and he guarded their best player. He’s answered the challenge all year” Millstone said when asked about Ulrich’s play.

The Hawks started out on a 14-2 run that gave them the lead 40-33. After a Pirate time out, the hosts were able to compose themselves and fought their way back into the game.

Entering the final quarter, the score was tied at 42 a piece. Hoffman’s Jorden Thornton (19 points) was able to make some key buckets in the final frame, including the three with 1:26 to put the Pirates down four.

“They made a few more plays down the stretch,” said Palatine coach Eric Millstone. “It can be a cruel game when you’re on the losing end, and exhilarating when you win. We didn’t make the plays.

Palatine couldn’t make up for the defensive lapses throughout the game and found themselves on the losing side for the fourth straight game.

Senior Charlie Van Dyke posted 15 points (4-6 from three) for the Pirates.

Palatine travels to Barrington Friday night for their final conference game of the season.