Front Royal, VA - Christendom Crusaders Men's Basketball team fell in a close game against ESAC rival Bucks County Community College 81-75 on Saturday, November 18th.
The first half brought intensity on both sides of the court. Crusader's John Paul Vander Woude (Senior/ Nockesville, VA) drained a three to give the team a lead early in the half. Although the Crusaders continued to fight on offense, Bucks Community College came on top for the remainder of the half. With less than 10 minutes left, Bobby Vander Woude (Sophomore/ Nockesville, VA) finished a layup through contact and buried the and one free throw to bring the Crusaders within 5 points of the Centurions. The Crusaders were unable to stop the Centurions on the attack, and the first half came to an end with the Bucks over the Crusaders 43-32.
Although starting the second half down by more than ten points, the Crusaders found motivation and elevated the intensity of their play. After battling back with strong defense and a clicking offense, Daniel Schultz (Freshman/ Fredericksburg, TX) buried two foul shots to tie the game at 48-48. As Christendom's defense held the Centurions, the Crusaders took the lead off a field-goal by John Fowler (Freshman/ Tempe, AZ). Although Christendom outscored the Centurions in this half, they were unable to hold the lead and the Bucks came on top 81-75 at the end of the game. Christendom's B. Vander Woude had an outstanding game, bringing in 25 points in the match. Peter Ethridge (Senior/ Phoenix, AZ) and Shultz fought hard in front of the hoop, with 7 rebounds each.
Next Up: The Crusaders will travel to Penn State York in a big USCAA match up on Tuesday, November 21st at 8PM.