Women's Basketball | 2/1/2009 3:46:26 PM

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - The Methodist University women's basketball team picked up a big win over Christopher Newport Sunday afternoon 62-57.

The Captains (12-5, 7-3) scored the first basket of the game, but Methodist sophomore Dawn Sanderson came back and hit a jumper in the paint to even the score at two.  Methodist (11-6, 6-4) went on an 11-2 run to jump ahead four minutes into the first half.  Christopher Newport cut the lead to one on three different occasions during the half, but the Monarchs went into the locker room with a 30-26 lead.

Methodist maintained the advantage to start the second half before the Captains took a one point lead with 8:38 to go.  Alysa Kerr hit the second of two free throws for the two point lead, but Methodist senior Amanda Underwood came back with a jumper to tie the game at 45.  The Monarchs extended their lead to six but Christopher Newport fought back.  Chelsie Schweers hit a 3-pointer for the Captains to tie the game at 57 with 24 seconds remaining.  Methodist worked the ball around at the other end until senior Zan Messer knocked down the three to move ahead with 4.4 seconds on the clock.  The Captains called a timeout, but senior Dezzire Gilliard intercepted the inbounds pass and was fouled with 2.9 remaining.  Gilliard converted both free throws to seal the 62-57 win. 

Gilliard led the team with 19 points and 14 rebounds while Sanderson finished with 10 points. 

Jessica Moore led the Captains with 14 points.

The Monarchs will travel to Greensboro on Wednesday for a 5:30 pm tip-off.

Box Score