File photo – Drew Gillette

The Corsairs bounced back from their first loss of the season in impressive fashion on Saturday, beating Mendocino 69-68 in a true road game.

The College of the Redwoods men have made a habit of winning close games in the early season and did it again thanks to a Jon Nchekwube basket and free throw with just 2.6 seconds remaining.

Nchekwube has been an outstanding addition to the team this season and finished with a team-high 17 points in the win, which was the Corsairs second over a good Eagles team this year.

It was also a great response to Friday’s 84-70 loss to Los Medanos.

“Not only was the resiliency we showed tonight in a true road game inspirational, but our ability to process a very difficult loss from the previous night and turn the page was marvelous,” CR head coach Ryan Bisio said. “Mendocino is a very good team and we re overjoyed with this victory.”

Several players contributed in the win, including  Donald Willis, who finished with 15 points, and Drew Gillette, who chipped in 14.

Zac Claus added 11 points and Bradley Willis 10.

The Corsairs are now 5-1 on the season and will return home to host Simpson JVs next Saturday at 7 p.m.