2008 Woodie Awards
Eagles fall to UNC Asheville
Winthrop sees first half lead evaporate in loss to bulldogs
WU Media
Issue date: 2/6/08 Section: Sports
|
Leading 33-26 at halftime and shooting 59 percent on 13 of 22, Winthrop connected on just 29 percent in the second half and had just one field goal in the first 15:56 of the final period. UNC Asheville, took control of the game in the opening five minutes of the second half as the Bulldogs went on a 30-4 run in the first 9:56 of the final period to take a commanding 57-34 lead.
With the victory UNC Asheville takes control of first place in the Big South standings with a 7-0 record and a 18-4 overall mark, while Winthrop drops to 5-2 and 14-8. The loss snapped Winthrop's winning streak at five games while UNCA ran its streak to seven in a row.
Michael Jenkins and Taj McCullough were the only Eagles to score in double figures as the Bulldogs clamped down defensively in the second half forcing 11 Winthrop turnovers in the final period and 16 for the game.
UNC Asheville's guard combo of K.J. Garland and Bryan Smithson combined for 40 points. Garland connected on 9 of 11 field goals (including a perfect 4 of 4 from beyond the 3-point arc) and finished with 26 points. Smithson scored 14 while Vincent James pumped in 15.
Other than the first half shooting performance, the only bright spot in the game was in the rebounding department where Winthrop won the battle 29-25. Charles Corbin had five rebounds to lead the Eagles.
UNCA topped its season field goal average as it finished at 52 percent (26-50), including 16 of 28 in the second half (57.1 percent).
Winthrop will conclude its three-game road swing on Wednesday as they travel to Coastal Carolina for a 7 p.m. rematch. The Eagles defeated the Chanticleers 65-43 on Jan. 26 at home.
Be the first to comment on this story