The Niagara Knight's men's basketball team lost a hard fought 84-74 game to the defending Canadian College Athletic Association Champion Mohawk Mountaineers. Knights Head Coach Steve Atkin identified the "first two minutes of the second half, as where we lost the game."
The Knights trailed a half-time by a score of 43-42, led by the strong play of second year Sales and Marketing student Lawrence McNeil of St. Catharines, Ontatio. The 6-foot-4 forward scored 12 in the first half, and finished the game with an impressive 18 points and 15 rebounds. McNeil played all 40 minutes for the Knights in what Coach Atkin called a "phenomenal effort."
The Knights were outscored 26-17 in the third quarter, and the 9 point deficit proved too much for the team overcome.
The Mountaineers attack was led by a pair of big men. Taylor Dowhaniuk a 6-foot-9 center recorded 20 points and added 10 rebounds, while 6-foot-6 forward Andrew Cicuttini scored 15 points and grabbed 21 rebounds.
Despite the loss, Atkin felt the team played very well. Reigning Ontario College Athletic Association West Division Rookie of the Year Alex Campbell continued his strong play from last season leading all Knights in scoring with 20 points. While second year, General Business student Jimmy Bilenga added 13.
The Knights will look for revenge on January 31, 2013 when the team hosts the Mountaineers for a rematch of the season opener. The Knights looks to win their first regular season game on Sunday, November 4th at 4:30pm as they host the Canadore Panthers for the team's home opener.
