Box Score Elsah, IllDespite snowy conditions outside, it was warm inside Hay Field House as the Principia Panthers hosted the Spalding Golden Eagles in a hotly contested SLIAC Battle. The Panthers came out with a renewed intensity on defense, stifling the Golden Eagles attack in the first half. The Panthers went into the half with a 24-22 advantage. The second half was another story, as Spalding came out and relentlessly attacked the Panthers. Despite scoring nearly double the amount of points they scored in the first half, Principia was unable to match Spalding, falling to the Golden Eagles by seven, 73-66.
The Panthers got going early in the first half by two three pointers. The first by
Parker Davidson and the second by
Adaku Anumu. Principia's team wide focus on the defensive end gave them ample opportunities to increase the lead, yet they were unable to capitalize. After being tied at 20, a lay up by
Kaylin Hernandez Beiner gave the Panthers the lead. Despite only shooting 36% in the first half, Principia held Spalding to 22% shooting and lead 24-22 at the half.
The second half was the exact opposite of the first half, as a defensive struggle turned into an offensive shoot out. After falling behind 39-31, Principia clawed their way back into the game. A lay up by
Kaylin Hernandez Beiner off of an assist from
Jeff Ross cut the lead to four with 3:55 left. An ensuing steal and free throws by Beiner put the Panthers within two. Unfortunately, Principia could not get the stops that they needed to complete the comeback, falling 73-66.
Notable performances came from
Adaku Anumu with 32 points.
Kaylin Hernandez Beiner showed great progress at the point guard position, finishing with 10 points. Steve Hammond and
Joey Sander came in off the bench and provided a great spark for the Panthers tonight as well.
Principia next plays at Greenville College on Tuesday, January 12th at 8:00 PM. They will look to get back on the right track as they play the highest scoring team in the nation.
