Cardinals Outhustle Bulldogs in Dayton

DAYTON - The WP Cardinals came into this road game at 6-6, looking to get above .500 for the season at the expense of Dayton. In a close game that went back and forth for the majority of the evening, it was difficult to tell if the Bulldogs would get their first win or if the Cardinals would get on the plus side of .500

Though close, the first quarter swung to WP 12-8, largely due to Dayton's eight turnovers. In the second quarter, the Bulldogs were able to limit their turnovers (4), apply pressure defense-creating opposing turnovers, and go on an 8-2 run which included three-pointers from Derek McCleary and Cal Martin.

With less than three minutes left in the half, Dayton found themselves up 14-13 and in control of the game. After a timeout and a quick turnaround, the Cardinals went on a mini run (7-4) to close out the half, leading 20-18.

The Cardinals came out strong to start the third with a 7-0 run, only to be met by a 4-0 run by Dayton. The third quarter ended with the Cardinals ahead 29-22.

This is another classic example where the effort did not meet the output. The entire Bulldog team rallied for most of the game but just could not find 'the touch' required to seal the deal. It was close, which is a good sign going forward.

The turning point came with less than a minute to go in the game. The Cardinals found themselves up by one basket, 35-32, and with possession. With hands up and good defensive positioning, Dayton was ready. A three-point play by the Cardinals, put them in control.

For the game, Devin Acevedo led the Cardinals with 11 points. Travis Crockett added eight points, including two three-pointers. Ben Kleck, playing his first game this year after coming back from an injury, led the Bulldogs with nine points, followed by Derek McCleary with seven.