Nov. 23, 2005

BEAUMONT, Texas - A late second half rally by the Lamar Lady Cardinals came up just short in a season opening loss to the University of Denver, falling 45-42 to the Pioneers Wednesday night in the Montagne Center.

Trailing by as much as 12 points in the second half, Lamar raced back to within one point with 1:22 to play in the ballgame, but couldn't knock down a go ahead shot. LaToya Carson had an open look with 48 seconds to play, but the 15 footer wouldn't fall.

Denver added to their small lead by knocking down two free throws with eight seconds to play to take a three-point lead at 45-42. Lamar had two opportunities to tie the game, but Carson and Alexis Timpone's three pointers in the final four seconds came up just short.

Lamar (0-1) opened the game by jumping out to a quick 8-3 lead, but the Pioneers quickly erased the LU lead and jumped on top for a 30-21 lead at halftime. The Lady Cardinal defense stiffened in the second half, allowing Denver just 15 points, while holding them to 20 percent shooting in the second period.

Both teams gave each other opportunities to take control of the game, as Lamar knocked down just four of their 10 free throws, while Denver sank just seven of 15.

The Lady Cardinals were led by Audrea Samuel, who scored 12 points while blocking five shots. Chelsea Gugliotta chipped in with seven points for the Lady Cards, while Shaquita Coffey and LaToya Carson each added five points.

The Lady Cardinals will be in action again Saturday afternoon at 2:05 p.m. when they take on Oral Roberts in Tulsa, Okla.