CIRCLEVILLE, OH- The No. 7 Patriots traveled to Ohio Christian University to play the No. 1 ranked Trailblazers.  The host school's offense was able to outmaneuver the Patriots defense and shoot 56% from the floor to claim victory, 90-71.

The Patriots knew going into this match-up it would be an uphill battle.  With the Trailblazer's seasoned players and size, the Patriots needed to play a perfect game just to stay within reach.  Within four minutes the Trailblazers jumped out to an 11-point lead and were able to hold the double-digit advantage until just under one minute to go in the first half.  A pair of jump shots from Kevin Mack and Terrence Reese finally brought the Patriots within seven, 37-44, before the buzzer went off signaling halftime.

The game's second verse appeared to be playing out the same way as the first, as the Patriots defense combated against the Trailblazers shooting spree.  As time ticked away OCU gave no sign of letting up and ran off with the game.  The Patriots were out-rebounded 41-23 and shot just 45% compared to the Trailblazers 56%.

Lance Harris led the Patriots in scoring, taping 27 points.  Kevin Mack followed behind with 17 points, four assists and two steals.

The Patriots have three games left in regular season play and are lucky enough to get to play them at home.  The men host The King's College, Tuesday, February 18 with a start time of 8pm.

Go Patriots!