Playing their fourth game in six days, the Conestoga Pioneers battled Central League leader Lower Merion on even terms in the first half before falling flat in the second half.

The 90-60 loss dropped the Pioneers to third place in the league standings despite the individual heroics of sophomores Cory Hogan and Rowan Miller, who scored 19 points apiece. Conestoga trailed 20-18 after one quarter and 39-36 at halftime. But Lower Merion ruled the final two quarters by a 51-24 margin.

“It’s really hard to win when we give up double digit offensive boards,” said head coach Sean Forcine. “Lower Merion made some good adjustments in the second half and stifled our half-court offense. We have to get back to work and prepare for our next league game on Friday (against Upper Darby) at the PIT).”

“I believe in the heart and determination of our team and our leaders, and I am confident we will continue to work to be the best Conestoga basketball team that we can be towards the end of the season,” concluded Forcine.