January 20, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Jen Steele
(413) 585-2703

Worcester, MA: Coming off a conference loss to Mount Holyoke College, the Pioneers traveled to Worcester today in hopes of slotting their first NEWMAC win against Worcester Polytechnic Institute.  With a close first half in which Smith led 22-19, it seemed as if the streak would be ended.  However, the Engineers had other plans as they capitalized on free throws late in the second half to defeat the Pioneers 51-41.  With the loss, Smith currently stands at 1-15 overall and 0-5 in conference play.

The Pioneers used an early run in the first half by aggressive offensive play from junior guard Sarah Posnak (Miami, FL), who hit three 3-pointers.  The Engineers’ Megan Pajonas (Bristol, CT) was equally as threatening, scoring 11 straight points, which featured four consecutive free throws and a layup with 1:03 left in the first half.  Posnak responded by hitting a jumper with 34 seconds left, giving Smith a 22-19 first half lead. 

The beginning of the second half featured a defensive battle, but when Pajonas netted a jumper with 12:16 left in the game, the Engineers’ took a 28-26 lead and never looked back.  Pajonas scored a game-high 18 points and also added 6 rebounds.

Posnak led the way for the Pioneers with 17 points, including five 3-pointers and three assists.  Helena Charron (Portland, ME) added 8 points and Courtney Parker (Ocean City, MD) pulled down a game-high 7 rebounds.

The Pioneers are back in action this Wednesday, January 24th as they travel to Springfield College for a NEWMAC match-up.  Game time is scheduled for 7 pm.