Fayette can’t keep pace at W & J

December 7, 2010—Washington, Pa.

Penn State Fayette could not keep pace with Washington and Jefferson, as the Presidents (3-6) took down the Roaring Lions 105-83 in a non-conference contest in the Henry Memorial Center. Fayette (0-8, 0-1 PSUAC) fell to its fourth straight NCAA member institution, including Division II opponent California University of Pa.

Despite a balanced scoring attack that saw five Roaring Lion players finish score at least 10 points, Fayette could not overcome a slow start as the Presidents raced out to an early 20-3 lead.  The Roaring Lions were not able to pull any closer, as Washington and Jefferson led by as many as 28. Fayette traded baskets with the Presidents during the second half, but could not close the gap as the Roaring Lions weren't able to draw closer than 19.

Sophomore forward David Winns led Fayette with 17 points and seven rebounds. Despite being called for two offensive fouls in the first three minutes of the first half, Winns went 6-for-7 from the field and went to the foul line 10 times in only 24 minutes. Freshman guard Tyler VanOlst provided a spark off the bench for the Roaring Lions, contributing 15 points, including four three-point field goals. Sophomore guard James Pratt had 14 points and three assists, while junior guard Josh Tomson chipped in 10 points. Freshman forward Andrew Burnsworth rounded out the Roaring Lion players in double figures, posting a career-best 12 points while grabbing six rebounds.

The Presidents were led by Brian Felker, who made 10-of-12 shot attempts on his way to scoring 25 points. Felker also grabbed seven rebounds, while teammate Zach Bellhy scored 23 points and Paul Matthews added 16 points and nine rebounds. The Presidents dished out 24 assists, led by Matthews with six, as they snapped a six-game losing streak.

The Roaring Lions begin a three-game home stand to finish the fall semester as they host Penn State New Kensington on Thursday, Dec. 9 at 7:00 p.m. in the Community Center Main Arena. Penn State Schuylkill visits on Saturday, Dec. 11, at 2:00 p.m., followed by Saint Vincent on Saturday, Dec. 18, at 1:00 p.m.