BELMONT, NC – The Emmanuel Women's Basketball team traveled to Belmont, NC to take on the Belmont Abbey Crusaders in Conference Carolinas action. The first quarter was evenly matched, with both teams trading buckets but the Crusaders would take control of the game in the second quarter and go onto win it, 72-45. With the loss, the Lions fall to 8-5 on the season, 4-1 in Conference Carolinas play. 
 
Emmanuel would get off to an early 6-0 lead in the first quarter of play, and would lead until Belmont Abbey tied the game, 13-13. The Lions were 4-14 from the field during the first quarter, making 5-6 at the foul line. After the quarter, Belmont Abbey led 15-13. 
 
In the second, the Lions were 6-14 from the field (42.9%) and were 50% (1-2) from three. The Crusaders, however, shot 56.3% from the field and extended their lead to double digits, leading 38-24 at the half. 
 
The third quarter was a defensive battle, with neither team getting their offense going. The Lions shot 44% from the field (4-9) and were 50% from the foul line (3-6). After three, the Crusaders led, 54-38. 
 
In the fourth, the Crusaders continued to click offensively and pushed the pace of the game, scoring 18 points. Belmont Abbey would go on to win, 72-45. 
 
Junior, Abby Crawford led the Lions with 15 points, 5 steals, and 2 rebounds. Senior, Tyasia Freeman contributed 9 points and 4 rebounds while senior, Sydney Wyatt added 7 points of her own along with 3 rebounds and an assist. 
 
Next up, the Lions will look to bounce back at home against Young Harris on January 9 at 5pm. 
 
For more information on Emmanuel University athletics, visit goeulions.com.