LYNCHBURG, Va. – First period struggles were ultimately the demise for Averett University women's basketball, falling to the University of Lynchburg 73-45 on Wednesday night, despite a very competitive last three periods.
In a near flawless first quarter for Lynchburg, the Hornets distanced themselves away from Averett early, amassing a 26-6 lead by quarters' end.
The Cougars evened out through the duration of the second quarter, outscoring Lynchburg 15-14 across the second set of 10 minutes. The all-star defense of Averett forced six Hornet turnovers through the duration of the stanza, but the home team led by a 40-21 margin at halftime.
Going through the duration of the third, both teams were not scoring at a high volume, but Averett did its best to keep Lynchburg at bay. Forcing six more turnovers in this period alone, the Cougars only trailed by four points scoring (14-10), but were not able to dig into the comeback. The Hornets amassed a 54-31 lead heading into the final frame.
The Hornets controlled pace the rest of the way, en route to the 73-45 win. The Cougars' fourth quarter featured highlights from freshman
Anna Dabek, scoring seven of Averett's points within the period.
For the second time in as many contests,
Emma Jones led all Averett scorers versus Lynchburg with 10, with three 3-pointers.
Carmen Moore led the team in rebounds with six, which also tied her season-high in that regard.
Mariah Eberhardt swiped the most steals for the Cougars with three.
The Cougars forced more turnovers on the night slightly, leading the margin 21-20 over the Hornets.
The home stretch for Averett is nearing its end, returning back home for its second to last contest at the Grant Center on Saturday, Feb. 8. Visiting Shenandoah and Averett tip off at 2 p.m. for the first game of a doubleheader.
