Box Score Carlinville, IllThis afternoon, the Principia College Panthers traveled to Carlinville, Illinois to take on the Blackburn College Beavers. After falling behind early, the Panthers chipped away at the Beavers first half lead. At the half, Principia had fought all the way back, tying the game at 38-38. In the second half, Principia dictated play with their tough defense. However, with just five seconds left, Blackburn's DeAndre Manuel hit two free throws to send the game into overtime. This extra session was dominated by Blackburn, who ran away with the 84-76 victory.
Early on, it looked as though it was going to be a long day for the Panthers, as they fell behind 15-6 five minutes into the game. However,
Adaku Anumu got the Panthers back on track with seven quick points to cut the lead to five. Soon the lead jumped back to eight, but
Jeff Ross and Steve Hammond brought instant energy off the bench, leading the comeback. Ross's energy on defense, and Hammonds strong play down low helped the Panthers eventually tie the game at 38 going into the half.
An early second half three pointer by Anumu gave Principia their first lead of the game, 41-38. This was a lead that Principia would hold, and eventually build to seven with seven minutes left on a
Justin Ball lay up. Principia would hold this lead until the ten second mark, when a missed front end of a one and one gave Blackburn one last chance. A foul by
Adaku Anumu sent Blackburn to the line, where they were able to calmly sink two free throws, tying the game at 66 and giving Blackburn all the momentum heading into overtime.
In overtime, it was Blackburn that dictated play. An early three pointer extended the Beaver lead to five, and they never looked back. Principia was unable to get the stops they needed, as Blackburn came away with the 84-76 lead.
Standout performances from the Panthers came from Anumu, who finished with 35 points and
Parker Davidson who had 14 points. Also,
Jeff Ross and Steve Hammond did excellent work off the bench all night long, bringing the energy that helped keep Principia in the game.
Principia next plays at Spalding University on Tuesday, February 9th at 8:00 PM EST.
