Men's Basketball | 2/19/2011 10:14:00 PM

WINCHESTER, Va. - The Methodist University men's basketball team knew they were in a must-win situation on Saturday to host a first round tournament game. The Monarchs rallied to win 61-58 over Shenandoah University.

In a game that featured seven lead changes, the Monarchs had to come from behind late with Shenandoah maintaining the 56-53 lead with 2:28 left to play in the game. Methodist came back with six straight points to lead 59-56 with 45 seconds on the clock. The Monarchs maintained the advantage to finish with the 61-58 win.

Both teams exchanged baskets early and built six point leads, but it was Shenandoah who took a 32-25 lead at the break. The Monarchs opened the second half with a 10-0 run to lead by three with 16:09 remaining. Shenandoah regained the lead and both teams continued to battle until the final minutes when Methodist secured the win.

Mark Jernigan led Methodist with 17 points while Kyle Combs notched a double-double with 15 points and 13 rebounds. Bryan Hockaday also added 15 points.

Shenandoah had four players in double figures paced by Kevin Kline with 16 points.

The Monarchs secured the fourth seed in the USA South Tournament to earn the chance to host Greensboro College on Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.

Box Score

Tournament Seeding