Pilots run out of luck on the road, fall to 5-6 in MCC

The Bethel College men’s basketball team was unable to stop the Goshen Maple Leafs' hot offense on Tuesday, Jan. 24, as they fell by a score of 92-84. Despite having success on the road this season in the MCC, the Maple Leafs showed up with focus and determination as they turned away the Pilots for the second time this season. Bethel found themselves perplexed after the first four minutes of the game, as Goshen hit six threes and went up 22-11. From there, it was all about trying to keep up with the Maple Leafs’ speed and scoring capability and the Pilots trailed 52-40 at halftime. Despite a slow start to the second half, Bethel slowly chipped away at the lead and forced a great deal of pressure on Goshen. With 1:32 remaining, the Pilots cut the lead to 89-85 and it appeared they may erase the significant double-digit deficit. Nevertheless, Goshen proved their 21^st ranking by connecting on key free-throws to close out the win. Although the Pilots gave up 92 points, they were very efficient on offense, giving up only nine turnovers. Landon Booker led the team with 27 points and four steals. Zach Miller added 12 points, while Brandon Gerber chipped in 10. Ryan Benner was a strong force off the bench as well with 10 points. With this loss, the Pilots move to 5-6 in the MCC and 9-13 overall. They are currently tied in seventh place in the conference and will face Taylor next. Taylor is 4-7 in the MCC but has already defeated Bethel earlier this season by a score of 85-67.