PHOENIXVILLE, PA- The women's basketball team opened up the Holiday Inn Express Tip-Off Classic with a loss to East Region opponent, Cairn University.  It was a close battle but the Highlanders aggressive shooters kept the Patriots at bay as Valley Forge yielded their home opener, 46-58.

Despite having the first chance to score, the Patriots were unable to capitalize on their opportunity of grabbing the opening tip-off.   Grabbing the rebound the Highlanders raced their way down the court to put up the first basket and lead the Patriots, 2-0.  Valley Forge continued to push but found themselves out-matched at the boards.

The Highlanders were able to hold a small yet solid lead over the Patriots until the 9:47 mark, when sophomore guard, Mikala Brinson, made good on a shot from behind the arch and put the Patriots up by one, 14-13.  Grabbing the rebound on a missed Highlander shot, the Patriots executed their play perfectly to give Aubrie McQuown the ball for a layup and extend their lead, 16-13.

It was as far ahead as the Patriots would get as the Highlanders regrouped and went on an 8-2 run to regain the lead and never look back.  Several times the Patriots nipped at their opponents heels, getting within one or two points, but unable to hold their ground for second chance points, the Highlanders walked away with the victory.

The Patriots were outrebounded, 58-42, allowing the Highlanders 23 second chance points.

In the loss Mikala Brinson recorded 27 points, seven rebounds, six assists and five steals, while Ariene Ohimor notched 14 rebounds, two assists and one steal.

The women move on to play Trinity Baptist College, tomorrow, Friday, November 21.  The game is set for a 6PM start.

Go Patriots!