MISHAWAKA, IN – Spring Arbor had a few chances as time was winding down, but couldn't overcome Bethel on the road as the Cougars lost a tough three point game 74-71.  It was the first Crossroads League game of the year for both teams and the loss drops the Cougars to 5-2 overall.

Rob Hogans continued to burn the nets and led all scorers in the game with 26 points going 10-19 from the field including 3-7 from 3-point range.  Chris Bellamy sparked the Cougars with 18 points coming off the bench and led Spring Arbor with a team high six rebounds.

Matt Van Pelt put in another solid performance at the point passing around seven assists against only two rebounds.

Down five points at the half (40-35) the Cougars would cut the lead to two points (57-55) with a bucket from Jiles Neely with 7:56 remaining in the game, and by one (59-58) with a 3-pointer by Hogans.  That would be the closest the Cougars would be able to get.

Statistically, the game was as even as the score with both teams shooting in the mid 40% from the field with Bethel at 46%, Spring Arbor at 44%, but the Cougars missed opportunities at the line in the second half hitting only 6-14 (46%) free throws in the second stanza.

"We didn't play great," stated Coach Ryan Cottingham.  "But I liked the way we competed all night long.  You can't shoot 52% from the free throw line and expect to win."

The Cougars return home after the Thanksgiving break on Tuesday, November 27.  Tip off for St. Francis is set for 7:00.