Box Score LAKELAND, FLA.-- In a crucial Sun Conference matchup, Southeastern knew that they would need to set the tone early. They did just that in a statement win over rival Warner University by a score of 65-49.
With the win, the Fire improve to 2-1 in conference play and 11-3 overall for the season. The loss moves the Royals to 1-1 in conference play and 6-6 overall.
The Fire defense kept the Royals to single digits in each of the first two periods. In the first period, Warner managed just six points while Southeastern jumped to a 14-6 lead.
In the second period, the Fire started on a 9-0 run to stretch their lead to 15. Once again, the Royals were held to 3-14 FG shooting for the second straight period and could only muster eight points for the period. Going into the half, the Fire held a comfortable 33-14 lead.
The offense for the Fire was kicked into gear by senior
Christin Strawbridge. The center scored the first two baskets of the third period for the Fire and finished with 21 points and 13 rebounds. As a team, Southeastern shot 54% on 7-13 FG shooting.
A pair of
Carlie Newman free throws expanded the lead to as much as 30 points midway through the final period.
Bailey Hooker finished with 19 points on 8-14 shooting.
Alyssa Ramos finished with 12 points and three assists.
The Fire are back in action Friday evening as they'll travel down to Miami Gardens for a crucial Sun Conference matchup against the St. Thomas University Bobcats. Tip off is set for 6 p.m.
