SHEBOYGAN, Wis. (Nov. 28, 2007) - Edgewood College men's basketball erased a 16-point second half defecit, but couldn't maintain their momentum down the stretch, falling to Lakeland College 70-57 in the Northern Athletics Conference opener for both teams. The Eagles used a stunning 18-2 run over a four minute stretch in the second half to knot the game at 50, but made just one basket in their last 12 shots of the game.

After Peter Worth's free throw put Lakeland (1-3, 1-0 NAC) ahead 48-32 with 11:48 remaining, Edgewood (1-3, 0-1 NAC) rattled off the next 15 points. Chris DeMarco scored seven points in the run, while Charlie Averkamp added five points, all at the free throw line. Seconds later, Aaron Ritschard nailed his second three-point basket of the game to erase the lead and tie the game with 7:54 left to play.

However, the Eagles would make just one of their final 10 field goal attempts of the game. Aaron Regal would give Lakeland the lead for good at 59-56 with a three-point basket, and the Muskies would make nine of 10 free throws down the stretch to seal the victory.

The Eagles played from behind most of the game, trailing 39-30 at halftime, despite shooting 50 percent (13-for-26) from the field in the first 20 minutes.

DeMarco, returning to the starting line-up after missing the last two games, poured in a game-high 23 points. Averkamp notched his second double-double of the season scoring 10 points and pulling down 13 rebounds. Ritschard continued his steady play since being inserted into the starting line-up chipping in 10 points of his own. Edgewood outshot Lakeland from the field, but could not overcome 16 turnovers or 28 percent (seven-for-25) shooting in the second half.

The Eagles will continue their season opening six-game road trip on Saturday when they travel to Marian College. Game time at Sadoff Gymnasium in Fond du Lac is 4:15 p.m.