SVC Mauls Lynx
BENNINGTON, Vt. - The Southern Vermont College mens basketball team was definitely in need of everything that occured on Thursday night within the SVC Field House. Junior captain Joe Karnik returned to the line-up and inspired the Mountaineers to a much-needed, 78-61, victory over visiting Lesley University.
Karnik had missed several weeks of play with a severe-sprain injury to his neck, but made a major impact in his first game back in the starting line-up with 21 total points and three game-changing dunks.
"It definitely feels great to be back," Karnik said. "I've been ready, it's tough watching from the sidelines."
The Mountaineers (6-13 overall, 3-5 NECC) trailed for the majority of the first half, but took the lead with 8:06 remaining in the half on a Ben Naaktgeboren lay-up. SVC did not give away the lead for the rest of the game and brought a 38-29 lead into the break.
"We are pleased with the win as we're trying to position ourselves for the playoffs, this game was essentially a must win for us," said SVC head coach Michael Mcdonough. "It was a boost having Karnik back, he always produces for us, and his leadership along with his enthusiasm pushes our team to play our best basketball."
The Lynx (4-15 overall, 1-7 NECC) went on a scoring run to begin the second half and cut SVC's lead to four at 46-42. The Mountaineers countered the surge with a balanced attack as Brett Clatworthy went 4-for-8 from beyond the three-point arc with 12 points, Brendan Kordana finished with 17 and Naaktgeboren had 14.
"We had solid production from the entire team and did a lot of good things that we need to carry over to future games, and hopefully deep into the playoffs," McDonough said. "We are still playing for a shot at a home playoff game and now control our own destiny."
SVC continues with another important conference game on Saturday against Newbury College at 2:00 p.m.
