FRANKLIN SPRINGS, GA - The women's basketball team took on the Belmont Abbey Crusaders on Tuesday night. The Crusaders beat the Lions, 72-59, moving Emmanuel's record to 3-11 (3-8 CC). 

Emmanuel got off to a quick start, scoring a dozen points in less than four minutes and taking an early 5 point lead, 15-10. However, the Crusaders quickly rallied, managing to tie the score just a few minutes later with an unanswered five point run, 15-15. Belmont Abbey continued the momentum, closing out the first 10 minutes on an 11-3 run to lead by a possession, 21-18. The second quarter was slower paced than the first, with neither team able to replicate their explosive start. The Crusaders scored 12 in the second, versus 11 for the Lions, resulting in a four point advantage for Belmont Abbey at the half, 33-29. 

The third quarter was hard fought by both teams, but similar to the first 20 minutes it was the Crusaders who edged out the Lions. With 10 minutes to go Belmont Abbey had increased their lead to seven points, 52-45. The Lions battled their way through the fourth quarter, but all of their points were answered by the Crusaders. With Belmont Abbey's momentum tough to slow, the Lions ended up falling by 13 points, 59-72. 

The Lions were led by junior Jeanetta Elder, who finished with 17 points and 6 rebounds. Junior Jazmin Allen followed with 12 points, also recording 6 boards. 

Next up, women's basketball will host Chowan University on Thursday, January 28 at 4:00pm. 

For more on Emmanuel College athletics, visit goeclions.com.