Reading holds off Phantoms

FLORENCE — The Reading Express got a little payback against the Florence Phantoms.

The Express, who lost to the Phantoms in last year’s conference finals, got their revenge with a 66-55 win over Florence on Friday night at the Florence Civic center.

The loss snapped Florence’s six-game winning streak.

The Phantoms had not lost since their season opener against Carolina on March 7. Both of Florence’s losses this season have come at home.

The Phantoms’ lead in the AIFA South Division is just a half-game over Columbus, which hosts South Carolina tonight.

Omar Jacobs led the way for the Phantoms, throwing for six touchdowns and running for another.

But Jacobs threw two interceptions, one with less than a minute left. Florence was trailing 59-55 with 57 seconds to play but Jacobs threw an interception, which was returned for a touchdown.

A.J. Bennett and Reggie Eubanks each had two touchdowns in the loss.

Florence (6-2) will have next week off before hosting Carolina on May 16 at 7:30 p.m.