Box Score Eureka, Ill- Tonight the Principia Panthers traveled to take on Eureka College in their Conference opener. SLIAC play was a fresh slate for both teams as they looked to move to 1-0 in SLIAC play. Both Principia and Eureka battled hard throughout the first half, going into the break tied at 50. However, Eureka's three point onslaught proved to be too strong for the Panthers in the second half, coming away with the 91-85 win.
The first half was a back and forth offensive affair.
Jeff Ross shouldered most of the scoring load for the Panthers as he kept them close after a hot start by Eureka. Some hard nosed offensive rebounding by
Parker Davidson and a half time buzzer beating three by
Adaku Anumu allowed the Panthers to be tied at the half.
The second half was an uphill battle for Principia as they fell behind early. Finally, the Panthers took a 71-68 lead, only to have it taken away immediately by a Eureka three pointer. Eureka went on a run again to take a 8 point lead with five minutes left, but the Panthers bounced back again. A free throw line jumper by
Jeff Ross tied to the game with a around a minute left. A backbreaking three by Eureka sealed the fate for the Panthers, as they pulled away from Principia late.
Principia was led by
Jeff Ross with 23 points.
Parker Davidson had 14 points and 15 rebounds for the Panthers. Rounding out the double figure scorers were
Adaku Anumu and
Justin Ball who finished with 16 points each.
Principia falls to 0-1 in SLIAC play. They will look to get back on the winning track as the play SLIAC foe Webster University at home on Saturday December 5th at 3:00 PM. Come out to Hay Field House and support the guys.
