Front Royal, VA – Christendom men's basketball (9-10) fell in heart breaking loss at home to the Penn State York Nittany Lions (20-6) by the score of 65-67 on Monday, February 12th.
The energy in the building was unmatched as Christendom took on a fast and physical Penn State York. The Crusaders gave up an early lead in the first half but stayed right on the heels of the Nittany Lions throughout the first 20 minutes. Penn State York's height helped them score in the paint and under the hoop. With 5 minutes left in the first half, the Crusader found themselves in a 29-16 hole. But after capitalizing at the free throw line and a clutch full extension lay up from Bobby Vander Woude (Sophomore/ Nokesville, VA), the Crusaders pulled within just 1 point of the Lions within the final minute. The first half came to a close with the Crusaders trailing 34-30.
The second half of Monday's game came down to the wire. A deep three from John Paul Vander Woude (Senior/ Nokesville, VA) gave the Crusaders an early second half lead 39-38. They maintained their slim lead until only 5 minutes remained, as the Lions fought for a go-ahead layup. But J. Vander Woude and the Crusaders responded with a contested three from the corner. Up by 2 with less than a minute left, York nailed a dagger three to go up by 5. That proved to be all York would need as they closed out the game 65-67.
The Vander Woude brothers lead the way in scoring for Christendom, both posting 17 points. Peter Etheridge (Senior/ Phoenix, AZ) finished the day in double figures at well with 10 points.
Next Up – Christendom Men's basketball hosts rival and ESAC opponent Central Penn (8-15) on Thursday, February 15th at 7:00pm.