Crusaders Defeat Mechanics in Big Conference Win

Front Royal, VA- The Crusaders took on the Williamson Mechanics at home on Saturday, February 10, where they earned the 82-73 victory over their conference rival.

Williamson came out strong, getting on the board first with an and-1 layup off an offensive rebound.  However, Christendom quickly responded, going up 5-3 with a 3-pointer by John Paul Vander Woude (Senior/Nokesville, VA) followed by a drive by Peter Ethridge (Senior/Phoenix, AZ).  The Crusaders kept the lead for the remainder of the half, and were up by as much as 13 at one point.  Despite the Crusaders strong play, the Mechanics did not go away, as they cut the lead to 6 before the half. The score being 38-32 at halftime.

The Crusaders made a run at the beginning of the second half, with a 3-pointer by Andrew Heisler (Senior/Front Royal, VA) on their first possession and a layup by Bobby Vander Woude (Sophomore/Nokesville, VA) on their second. With 15 minutes to go, the Crusaders were again up 13, but the Mechanics continued to fight hard.  Williamson tied the game 59-59 with 7 minutes to go, and then went up on the Crusaders 66-64 with 5 minutes left in the game.  Ethridge hit 2 clutch free throws to tie the game 66-66, and then J. Vander Woude hit a huge 3-pointer to give Christendom the 69-66 lead. From there, the Crusaders led the rest of the game, ultimately winning 82-73.

The Crusaders' offense was very well-balanced, with four players in double digits.  J. Vander Woude led the team in scoring with 23 points, followed by B. Vander Woude with 16 and Heisler with 14. Ethridge finished with a double-double notching 12 points and 11 rebounds.

Up next – The Crusaders take on the Penn State York Nittany Lions at home on Monday, February 12.