Box Score
Toccoa, GA -- In the first regular season game of the 2009-10 season the Piedmont College men's basketball team traveled to local rival Toccoa Falls College and fell by the score of 66-55. The PC offense struggled to score as Eagles outscored the Lions by 18 in the second frame en route to their first victory in the last nine meetings between the teams.
Two minutes into the first half Piedmont went on a 10-0 run that included a pair of tri-fectas to take a 16-6 advantage. After the home team posted five points the Lions forced three turnovers that turned into seven straight points for a 23-11 lead at the 10-minute mark. Piedmont held its largest lead of the game at 35-19 with 5:46 remaining in the half but would not be able to score again before intermission. PC was held scoreless for the final six minutes as TFC ended the half on a 9-0 run.
The Eagles (3-3) chipped away early in the second half and took the only lead change of the night 46-44 with 12 minutes remaining. During the stretch the home team used a 12-0 run capitalizing on three turnovers and eight missed shots. The Lions' offense again struggled to score as the team endured another six minute scoreless stretch midway through the second period.
The Lions were able to cut the deficit to 58-54 with three minutes remaining but saw the Eagles finish the game on an 8-1 streak including three points from the charity stripe.
Mike Chatman filled in at point guard and led the Lions with 14 points and four steals.
Josh Haymore added nine points while
Tracey Gardner added seven points and four offensive rebound to go along with a pair of blocks. Jachin Wettstone paced the Eagles with a double double of 15 points and 24 rebounds as well as a game-high seven blocks.
On the night, the Lions shot a dismal 32% from the field including 3-20 (15%) from three-point land. TFC also gained an advantage from the charity stripe as the hosts attempted 30 free throws compared to the Lions' 10.
The loss moves the Lions to 0-1 on the young season. The squad will look to rebound in the home opener on Tuesday, November 24th as they play host to non-conference foe Covenant College at Cave Arena beginning at 7:00. The game will be part of the Toys for Kids Initiative as fans are encouraged to bring new or slightly used toys for donations to be given to local children as Christmas gifts. Admission to the game is free.
