Free Throws And 15-0 Run Are The Difference Makers

NORTHFIELD, Minn. (2/16/15)—A pair of free throws and a 15-0 second-half run proved to be the difference in Concordia's 51-49 loss at Carleton.

The Cobbers and Knights were almost dead even in statistical categories except for two more free throws for Carleton and the Knights used a 15-0 streak finishing at the midway point of the second half to erase a three-point deficit and take a nine-point lead – a lead they would never relinquish for the rest of the game.  

The loss at Carleton was the bad news on the night for Concordia. The good news is that Augsburg also lost which means the Cobbers stay two games ahead of the Auggies for the final conference playoff spots.  CC is now 10-8 in MIAC play and 14-9 overall.

Concordia and Carleton both made 20 field goals and four 3-point field goals in the game. The Knights held a slim 31-29 edge in rebounds and Carleton committed only one more turnover (16-15). The statistical difference came at the foul line where the Cobbers went 5-for-12 (41.7%) while the Knights went 7-for-12 (58.3%).

The difference in free throws came at the end of the second half when Concordia had a chance to tie the game but missed both free throws. The second free throw was missed on purpose to try and grab the rebound and get the game-tying basket.

The Cobbers did get the missed free throw attempt. Isaac Anderson hauled down the rebound but a Carleton player was able to latch on to the ball and force a held ball call. Concordia had the possession arrow in its favor but a tip-in try with 1-second on the clock fell short.

Concordia led for most of the first half and into the second period of play until Carleton went on the decisive 15-0 run starting at the 15:31 mark. They came out of the stretch 6:24 later and held a nine-point lead at 42-33 with 9:39 left to play.

The Knights pushed the lead to 10 points with 4:27 remaining and then CC was able to whittle the lead down to a single point by going on a 9-0 run. That would set the stage for the late-game drama.

Concordia had three players finish in double figures in scoring. Tom Fraase was 5-for-12 from the field and had a team-high 12 points. He also hauled down a game-high seven rebounds and added three assists.  Jordan Bolger added 11 points and Brandon Giese had 10 points.   

The Cobbers will try and secure an MIAC playoff spot when they travel to Northfield to take on No.15-ranked St. Olaf on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 7:45 p.m.