ST. LOUIS, MO. -- This afternoon the Principia College women's basketball team faced the Lady Gorlocks of Webster University in their 6th conference game of the season.  It was a slow start for the Lady Panthers today, with the opening tip-off showing an uncharacteristic lack of energy, particularly on defense.  Short one point guard as well, Principia had several players playing out of position, including junior captain Sarah Corbitt who started at the point guard position.  Corbitt showed a lot of composure and leadership getting the team into its offense, and despite the lackluster defense, Principia hit several of its first shots.  Kick-starting the offense for Principia was freshman guard Mac Wilgus, who showed noteworthy confidence on offense (she ended with 8 points, and shot 4 for 5 from the field).  As per usual however, Principia was plagued by turnovers (29 to Webster's 19), ultimately allowing Webster to take a 19 point lead going into half time.

 The 2nd half showed some improvement, but Principia never fully recovered from the hole of the 1st half.  The Lady Panthers finally found some spark on defense, and managed to hold Webster to just 27 2nd half points (compared to the 42 of the 1st half).  Every player on the Principia squad got a chance to see some minutes as well as contribute to the overall score.  Freshman Karina Olsen had a nice lay-up on the right side for 2, and junior forward Jocelyn Shoemake was a perfect 2 for 2 from the free throw line.  In fact, the whole squad showed vast improvement from the charity stripe, shooting 90% (senior captain Lindsay Sydness led the way with a perfect 6 for 6).  With a 2nd half score of 22-27, Principia showed much more spirit in the second 20 minutes (Sydness ended with 18 points, 9 boards and 2 blocks), and looks to put together a cohesive 40 minute game the next time around.   Their next opportunity will be at home on Tuesday January 17th, against the Fontbonne Griffins.  Tip-off is scheduled for 6:00 pm.