Men's Basketball | 1/4/2012 9:28:00 PM

Box Score FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - Methodist trailed Christopher Newport University by as many as 17 points, but chipped away at the lead late before falling 80-75 in the first USA South Athletic Conference game of the season.

The game was tight early with Methodist holding a 10-6 advantage. CNU came back and used 12-2 run late in the half to take a 37-26 lead at halftime. The Captains took advantage of the Monarchs' poor shooting early in the second half and led by 17 with 13:36 to play. The Monarchs came back on a 9-0 run to move within eight, but Christopher Newport responded to go back up by 12. Methodist continued to battle and with 5:20 remaining, Kyle Combs drained a 3-pointer to move the Monarchs within three points. Yet again, CNU went back up by 12, but Methodist was not finished. Mark Jernigan hit a 3-pointer with 13 seconds on the clock to cut the lead to three, but CNU's Mike Cherry hit two free throws on the ensuing possession to secure the 80-75 win.

Mark Jernigan led all scorers with 23 points while Combs had 17 points and 10 rebounds. James Whitehead added 14 points while Bryan Hockaday had 12 points, 10 rebounds and tied his career high with seven blocks.

CNU had four players in double figures paced by Tra Benefield with 18 points.

Methodist will be back in action on Saturday when they travel to Averett University.

Box Score