Staunton, VA - Methodist University jumped out to a 12-4 lead in the opening minutes of the USA South Conference matchup this afternoon and held on to defeat Mary Baldwin 61-48.  The Monarchs, 6-6 (3-2 USA South), built the first half lead behind Jackie Lyles who scored 16 points in the first 20 minutes.  Methodist went into the locker room with a comfortable 43-27 lead.

Iin the second half the Monarchs built their lead to 54-34 at the 9:52 mark and it appeared they would roll to victory but the Fighting Squirrles weren't willing to simply give up a win on their home court.  Freshman Megan Barron made two free throws at the 6:04 mark to cut the lead to 14.  Then, back-to-back three pointers from Shanice Miles and Sabrina Desper brought the Squirrels to within 8. In the final minutes, TT Taylor stepped up and sank 2 jumpers while Iesha Hayes added 2 free throws and Emily Huneycutt added another to stop MBC's comeback.

Senior Sabrina Desper again led Mary Baldwin with a "double double" scoring 15 points and grabbing 11 rebounds while Shanice Miles added 12 points.

Mary Baldwin will travel to North Carolina Wesleyan College Wednesday.