December 30, 2007
Methodist Falls Just Short Against Maryville
Junior Antwin Shuford led with 18 points to earn All-Classic honors

DEMOREST, GA- Maryville jumped out to an early lead in the second day of Piedmont Holiday Classic, but the Monarchs came back to take the lead with both teams exchanging leads throughout the game. Maryville broke a 58-58 tie with 7:20 to go in the game and held on for the 72-69 win. The Monarchs move to 6-4 on the season while Maryville improves to 8-2 this year.

After Maryville led early 14-6, Methodist took their first lead of the game 15-14 with a little more than 12 minutes remaining in the first half. Maryville regained a nine point lead, but the Monarchs closed the gap to five going into halftime.

Sophomore Eric Thomas gave Methodist the lead on two free throws in the second half, but neither team could really jump ahead with eight ties throughout the game. With 1:10 to go in the game, junior Antwin Shuford scored the layup for Methodist to move within one, but when fouled, Maryville's Alex Bowers converted both free throws. Methodist had to foul again and Bowers gave Maryville a five point lead with 21 seconds left. Shuford scored again with eight seconds to go and a steal from freshman LeuMichael Smith gave the Monarchs a final opportunity, but just missed with Maryville taking the 72-69 win.

Shuford finished with 18 points and 8 rebounds while senior Billy McDade scored 14 points and junior A.B. Lehmann added 11 points. Junior Travis McBryde also scored in double figures with 10 points.

Shuford was named to the All-Classic team after averaging a double-double over the weekend.

The Monarchs will travel to Virginia Wesleyan on Wednesday with a 3 pm tip-off.

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