ST. CHARLES, MO. - The Lindenwood women's basketball team fell in a 71-56 loss to the Eastern Michigan Eagles in Ypsilanti, Michigan on Monday night.

"Tonight's game came down to one quarter," said Head Coach Katie Falco. "We need to clean up the little things, but we also had many moments showing that we can compete! I am proud of how our team continues to handle adversity."

GAME OVERVIEW
After a relatively even first quarter of play, the Lions trailed the Eastern Michigan Eagles 16-19 going into the second quarter. Paige Craft, who got the starting nod for Lindenwood, fell victim to injury early on in the game, sidelining her to the Lions' already short bench. Both teams were plagued with limited subs in this game as it was, requiring various girls to step up on both sides of the court.

The Eagles began to swing the momentum in their favor during the second quarter, going on a nine point run heading into the half, leading the Lions 24 to 36. Emily Benzschawel fell into stride and quickly became one of the Lions' key players, instantly stepping in to fill Craft's role.

The third quarter consisted of more EMU offensive pressure, but Lindenwood looked to close things up regardless. The Lions were down 34-51 with three minutes remaining in the quarter, until Masyn McWilliams knocked down back-to-back three pointers, giving the Lions a breath of fresh air late in the third. 

The Lions had an upward battle for the remainder of the game, heading into the fourth down 40-55. The Eagles just kept their foot on the gas, making it tough for Lindenwood to come back. 

Benzschawel was the dark horse off the bench tonight, shooting an impressive 3-3 from behind the three-point line, as well as leading the Lions with 14 total points. The senior guard also knocked down 3-4 of her free throws, and also added one block, one steal and four defensive rebounds to her stat line.

GAME LEADERS
Emily Benzschawel - 14 P, 100.00 FG% 4 RB, 1 B, 1 ST
Masyn McWilliams - 13 P, 4 RB, 2 A, 1 ST
Alana Striverson - 7 P, 6 RB, 2 A, 1 B, 2 ST
Mary McGrath - 7 P, 6 RB, 1 A 

UP NEXT
The Lions will head to the University of Central Arkansas on Tuesday, November 15th for a 7:00 p.m. tip off in Conway, Arkansas.