Box Score STEUBENVILLE, Ohio – Franciscan University's women's basketball team was defeated on its home court by Bethany College, 62-47. Knowing that the game would be difficult, FUS took the matchup as a challenge, playing an extremely physical game with their non-conference opponent.
"Bethany is a tough team," FUS head coach Suzy Delaney said. "They have a good program with a big bench, strong girls, and fundamental stability."
Starting off with a seven-point lead, Bethany came out pressing full court from the beginning of the game. The fight for the ball was visible within the first half, while Franciscan's shots weren't falling with as much consistency as their opponents'.
"We didn't give up when the game got rough. We kept playing hard and looking for openings," Delaney said.
Allyson Cooney, a sophomore forward, was flattened inside the key in the end of the first half, her first of five charges throughout the game.
"I am very proud of Allyson's effort. Her five charges are a statistic of pride for our team," Delaney said. "She laid it all down, mentally and physically. That inspires the girls to play the same way."
Ending the first half 31-28 with a three-point lead, the Bisons picked up the pace and dominated the second half twenty points ahead of Franciscan.
"Everyone rose to the challenge. We were working hard on the defensive end, but our girls were tired," Delaney said. "When you're exhausted, it's harder to remain mentally tough."
Leading Franciscan in rebounds, Cooney had seven boards, seven points, and five charges. Sophomores Amy O'Keefe and Lacey Huck had 13 and 12 points, respectively.
"The challenge of going up against this team will only make us better for our conference matches," Delaney said. "I am proud of our girls' efforts, and we look forward to getting another shot on Wednesday."
Franciscan (2-4, 2-0 AMCC) will play at University of Pittsburgh at Greensburg on Wednesday, December 5th at 6pm.
