Pioneers Drop Close Game to Evangel

It took the women five and a half minutes to score, but a big second half comeback vs. Evangel turned a blowout into a tight game on Thursday. The Pioneers found themselves down 9-0 before finally putting the ball in the hoop. Evangel kept the pressure on and took a 14-point lead into the locker room. The second half was more of the same, and MNU trailed by 20 with 13 minutes remaining. The Pioneers crept back to a 15-point deficit when Evangel point guard Ashlee Luko fouled out of the game with 8 minutes left. MNU took advantage and went on a 17-3 to get within 1, but could never tie or take the lead. Bethany Rexroth's desperation heave from near half court came up short, and the Pioneers lost 55-53.

 

Hadleigh Meek led the Pioneers with 14 points. Bethany Rexroth collected another double double with 12 points, 12 rebounds, and 4 blocks. Beth Keeley added 10 points, 5 assists, and 2 steals. And Heather Cunard pulled in 10 rebounds.

 

The Pioneers are 15-12 (10-7 HAAC). The next game is Saturday at Lindenwood (8-19, 6-12) at 2:00 PM. With 3 games remaining in the regular season, Coach Olin is sitting on 498 career victories.