Ryan Krombeen shoots a free throw in the first half.

“Embarassing!”  That’s how the coaching staff described the loss to Cornerstone University.  “We were flat outplayed in every aspect of the game,” said Gary Bailey.  “Cornerstone played very well and we did not seem to want it as much.  This is two games in a row that we were flat and did not have the will to win.  This will change starting Monday.  We did not act like the #1 team in the country (NCCAA II) tonight and that is on me.  We will get back to doing what we do here at Grace.”  The Tiger’s fall to 14-4 on the season.

The Golden Eagles jumped out to a quick 14 point lead and Grace never would get back in the game.  Down as many as 22 in the first half the Tigers would get it down to a 9 point lead but could get no closer.  The Tigers were down 54-39 at the half. 

The Tigers started the half strong and cut the lead to 11 and had the ball but CU came storming back and eventually increased the lead to 22.  The Tigers, who average giving up only 66 points a game, gave up 100 points for the first time this year.

Allen Durham led Grace with 18 points and 10 rebounds.  Cory Jamieson hit for 14 points and handed out a team high 6 assists.  Greg Salmon scored 13 and Matt Kurtz 10.  The Tigers shot 54% for the game compared to 56% for CU.  The Tigers were outrebounded for only the third time this year 33-31.

Grace will now get an 11 day span without a game.  “We have not had a lengthy break since the season started,” said Bailey.  “We need to get healthy and well and gear up for the second semester.  We play two games in Iowa against two really good NAIA teams between Christmas and New Years and then get another 11 days off without a game.”

Cornerstone will travel to Central Michigan (NCAA I) for a game against the Chippewas next week.

Read the article in the Grand Rapids Press:  http://www.mlive.com/smallcolleges/grandrapids/index.ssf/2010/12/ronald_bates_derek_kingshott_l.html