Box Score From the tipoff it looked like the Lions had been shot out of a cannon, jumping out to an 11-2 lead to begin the game. The Crusaders hung tough, also showing signs of potent offense throughout the first half. Nonetheless, the Lions were able to extend their lead to 28-18 by the 10-minute mark in the first period.
Capital was able to trim the lead, even momentarily taking their first lead of the game with about 40 seconds remaining in the first half. That was short lived as Jake Cropper was able to beat the halftime buzzer with a three-point basket, sending the Lions into halftime with a 42-40 advantage.
The Lions started hot again in the second half, pushing their lead to 62-48 before forcing a timeout with about 12 minutes remaining. Bobby Murdock was a large component of the Mount St. Joseph run, knocking down three straight 3-point buckets and giving the Lions new life and energy.
Sure enough, Capital answered with a run of their own to bring the game to within only a couple of baskets. However, Mount St. Joseph was just too good from the free throw line down the stretch for Capital to complete a comeback, shooting 25-32 from the line for the game.
Erik Edwards and Andrew Finley led the charge for the Lions on Sunday. Edwards was able to rack up 30 points to lead all scorers. Finley had 18 points to compliment Edwards and also had 8 assists, as he was able to find the open man all night. Bobby Murdock was huge for the Lions off the bench against Capital. He was able to tally 13 points as a reserve, going 4-5 from long range in the Lions victory.
The 87-76 victory for the Lions was their fifth straight to open up the season. They will put their 5-0 record on the line on Wednesday when they travel to Anderson to kick off their conference schedule. The Lions were picked to win the HCAC this year and are currently two-time defending HCAC Champions. This will be their first test in their attempt to three-peat as conference champions. Tipoff will come at 7:30 PM.
