The Eagles experienced their first GSAC loss last weekend on the road, falling by a score of 70-85. Although Biola’s turnovers played a huge factor in their loss against No. 2 Vanguard, the offensive scoring output continues to rise.
Junior forward Jennifer French did her job again by scoring 18 points for the third straight game. She shot 5-18 in the game and went 5-6 from the free throw line. French also added to her overall statistics with four steals, six rebounds and two assists.
The match up brought out the intensity in both teams. The game started off with Vanguard taking the lead with an impressive 7-0 run. Biola would make the defensive adjustment, but ruined most of their offensive opportunities by turning the ball over. Vanguard took advantage of the Eagles by scoring 40 points off their 31 turnovers, almost half of Vanguard’s total points.
Biola got some help to counter their mistakes with scoring from junior forward, Jessilyn Conicelli. She shot 5-8 from inside the three-point line and 7-9 from the free throw line. Conicelli continues to show her reliability on offense. Her 17 point game makes it her sixth consecutive contest in double figures. She added nine rebounds, two assists and a blocked shot.
Before the end of the first half, the game’s tide almost shifted to the Eagles’ side as the score was 30-35. However, Vanguard’s Rachel Copeland, managed to score six points in only a minute’s time. In addition, Copeland’s 5-8 field goal percentage from the three point range was a top factor in stabilizing a victory. From there on into the second half, Vanguard remained strong.
Another mentionable shooter from Biola’s opponent that helped her team out was last year’s All-American, Bridgette Reyes. She scored 25 points with three steals and six rebounds.
The second half started off with a 15 point lead by Vanguard. They were able to capitalize due to a successful zone trap that stopped most of the Eagles’ penetration. Rebounding for the visitors came easily, but this was still not enough for the Eagles.
The Eagles fall to 2-4 overall and 1-1 in the GSAC. Vanguard jumps up to 5-1 overall and 1-1 in conference play.
Biola returns to Chase Gymnasium this Saturday to challenge another NAIA top ten opponent. This time they will face No. 4 Point Loma Nazarene, a team that beat Vanguard in their last match up.
