Caden Nichols scored 13 points in the fourth quarter Tuesday night, helping the Newton Eagles secure a 70-63 victory at Effingham.

The Hearts had battled back from an early deficit to tie the game, 44-44, entering the final eight minutes. But Nichols had his big scoring outburst, plus the Eagles made 13-of-19 free throws, allowing them to pull away at the end.

Newton led 15-7 after the first period and 30-24 at halftime.

Four Eagles were in double figures. Nichols led the way with 25 points, while Parker Wolf scored 18, Kye Bergbower had 11 and Dylan Gier added 10.

Effingham’s Garrett Wolfe led all scorers with 26 points. Andrew Splechter had 12 and Andrew Donaldson added 11.

The Hearts are now 6-12 for the season. They will play at home Friday against Taylorville in an Apollo Conference contest.