Auburn, ME – Playing the second game in two days is challenging for any team. It's even tougher for a traveling team. Central Penn College played on the road yesterday at SMCC and visited CM today for their second game. CM played their second game in two days as well but both at home.
One would expect the game to be a bit sloppy but both squads worked hard and put forth a solid effort. At games end, Central Penn traveled back to Pennsylvania with a 75-72 win. In a game with several lead changes, neither team could sustain a drive, or contain a drive. The first half ended with a 40-35 lead for the Mustangs. However, the Knights regrouped at halftime, came out of the gate, and within the first eight minutes took a six-point lead. The Knights maintained the lead, revolving between one and six points for most of the second period.
Containing the Knights size was a problem for CM. CM rotated their post players in an effort to keep fresh bodies on the court. Losing the rebounding battle, 35-34 looks better on paper than it reflected in the game. It seemed Central Penn gathered every big rebound, and either finished or went to the line. The knights went 11-22 from the line compared to the Mustangs 2-4.
Josh Chery hit for a double double with 22 points and 10 rebounds. CM got quality minutes from their bench play. Malik Farley, Mark McDonald, Ricky Thompson, and Elijah Barbour came off the bench to add big minutes.
CM falls to 12-6 on the year. The Mustangs host UMA tomorrow night at 8pm and Unity Tuesday at 8pm.