Free State's Evan Manning fights for a ball in a crowd of Jaguars in the second half against Blue Valley West Tuesday, Jan. 4, 2011 in Overland Park. The Firebirds won, 59-47.

Overland Park ? Eric Watson scored 22 points and Free State High rallied to defeat Blue Valley West, 59-47, in boys basketball action on Tuesday night.

The Firebirds (4-2) trailed, 16-12, after the first quarter, but used a 20-6 advantage in the second period to set the tone.

“We didn’t play a very good first quarter, but I thought we were really sharp in the second quarter with our attention to detail and our defense,” Free State coach Chuck Law said. “That (second quarter) was as good as we’ve played all year.”

Watson keyed the charge for FSHS, attacking the rim and draining all four of his three-point attempts.

“Eric was outstanding,” Law said. “He shot great from three. He played a nice game on the offensive end.”

Blue Valley West dropped to 2-3.

Free State will face Olathe East (4-1) on Friday at home.