COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Capital University women's basketball team hosted the Marietta Pioneers in an OAC league matchup on Wednesday. Despite a rough start, the Comets were able to fight their way back into the game and keep it close. Unfortunately Capital would fall behind again in the final minutes, with Marietta holding on to win with a final score of 71-58.

The loss drops Capital to 17-5 and 11-4 in OAC conference play. The Pioneers advance to 14-8 overall and 8-7 in OAC conference play.

Marietta got off the bus ready to play, and the first quarter started off heavily in their favor. They were able to score 14 before the first Comet point, but Capital was able to settle in towards the end of the quarter. A big three to end the drought from Kenzie Weiland set the Purple and White in the right direction, and what was a 14-0 start was cut to an eight point lead with a score of 18-10 to end the first quarter.

Capital continued to improve, playing more efficiently offensively while getting more defensive stops. A big problem for the Comets in the first quarter was letting the Pioneers get offensive boards, and that didn't happen as often this quarter. Kya Jordan was able to create some offensive opportunities for Capital with her play on both sides of the ball. This didn't stop the Pioneers though, who played a complete half and were able to keep their lead. The score at the end of the first half was 29-23 in favor of the visiting team. 

The trends from the second quarter continued into the third, with the teams trading baskets and making each other work for every point. Capital closed the gap, and at one point in the quarter was even able to tie the game. Despite this effort from the Comets, Marietta was able to pull away again. The score at the end of the third quarter of action was 49-42.

Quarter number four was a battle until the finish. Capital kept it close, but every time a lead was within reach the Pioneers would strike back with a basket of their own. It came down to the final minutes, but Marietta managed the game well and were able to thwart the Comet comeback, leading to a final score of 71-58.

THE NUMBERS
Samaree Perkins led the Comets in scoring with 20 points. She also managed to haul in six rebounds.

Bri O'Connor ended the game with 14 points and three assists. Most notably, she led Capital in rebounds with seven.

Kya Jordan played well on both ends of the floor, leading the team in assists with four and steals with two. She added five points to Capital's offensive effort. 

Jenna Horsley scored six points.

Maddi Weiland led the team in blocks with two.

UP NEXT
The Comets travel to University Heights, Ohio to take on John Carroll in their final regular season matchup as OAC foes on Saturday. The game is set to tip off at 1:00 p.m.