GRANTHAM, Pa. – On Saturday evening, the Messiah women's basketball team defeated Mary Washington University 66-40 to keep their unbeaten streak alive. The Falcon's defense was strong throughout all four quarters limiting the Eagles to just 11 points at the half. Then despite a 17-point quarter from Mary Washington to open the second half, Messiah's offense woke up thanks EmmyFaith Wood, Chloe Milanesi, and Charlotte Milanesi's consistent attack. Leading 51-28 at the end of the third, it was a chance for some of the reserves to gain some great experience on the floor. Ainsley Bell, Emma Fetterman, and Justine Forbes all found the bottom of the net in the 66-40 win at home.
 
Up Next
The Falcons will host Dickinson College Tuesday, Nov. 26 at 7:00p.m.
 
How It Happened
First Quarter
Both Messiah and Mary Washington struggled on the offensive side of the court in the first quarter. Reese Harden managed to score the first seven points for Messiah, opening a 7-2 lead. Following a Liv Monturo layup at the 5:55 mark, neither team would score until there was 4:00 on the clock as the Eagles knocked down back-to-back jump shots to cut the lead to 9-6. Two Harden free throws and a Monturo layup later and the Falcons led 13-6 heading into the second quarter.
 
Second Quarter
 To open the second quarter, the Falcons would go on a 11-2 run through the first four minutes to extend their lead to 24-8. Following a jump shot from the Eagles, Justine Forbes and Chloe Milanesi hit back-to-back lead to crush any hopes of an Eagle run. EmmyFaith Wood and Harden closed out the half with two layups, giving Messiah the 34-11 lead at the half.
 
Third Quarter
The third quarter saw a turn from the Eagles offense, finding some early success however, Charlotte Milanesis six points kept them at bay. Leading 44-19 with 5:55 on the clock, Wood and Chloe Milanesi knocked down some shots to extend the lead. However, an 8-2 run to cap the third quarter for Mary Washington cut the deficit to 51-28.
 
Fourth Quarter
Still with a commanding lead, Harden and Monturos ability to make shots seemingly took the life out of Mary Washington leading 58-32 with 7:00 remaining in the game. As both teams exchanged baskets over the next four minutes of play, Hope Cooks three and a Raegan Fogarty layup gave Messiah the 63-36 advantage. The Falcons strong defense closed out the game holding the Eagles to just 40 points, shooting 28% from the field.
 
Stats
Liv Monturo finished the game with a game high 15 points and eight rebounds. Reese Harden was not far behind with 14 points of her own and three assists. The Falcons had nine other scorers in the dominant win.
 
What's Up Next
The Falcons will host Dickinson College in their final home game before 2025. Start time is set for 7:00p.m Tuesday Nov 26th.