PLNU was unable to withstand a late surge by Vanguard, falling 76-63 in Golden Gymnasium Tuesday night in the GSAC opener for both teams. VUSC (1-2, 1-0) outscored the Sea Lions 11-3 in the game's final 2:45, in a game that was otherwise very even.

With 2:45 to play, PLNU trailed 65-60 and had previously led by as many as five points in the second half, and ten in the first half. However, Vanguard point guard Greg Scott fueled a late push by the Lions, scoring 13 points in the game's final five minutes.

Scott did most of the damage for the visiting Lions, scoring a game-high 27 points, hitting five three-pointers and dishing out five assists. VU was 10-of-22 from long-range on the night.

Alex Chapman gave the Lions a balanced attack, doing most of his damage inside as he added 25 points and 10 rebounds.

PLNU (1-4, 0-1) was led by Nate Van Weelden, who scored 16 points. Todd Campbell had 12 and Greg Murray added 11 for the Sea Lions, who dropped their fourth straight game.

Rhett Beal led the team with eight rebounds, and scored nine points. Robbie McDaniel came off the bench to provide five assists.

Vanguard got to the line 20 times, compared to 11 for the Sea Lions. VU also capitalized on their free opportunities, shooting 80 percent from the line. PLNU shot just 45.5 percent (5-of-11) from the charity stripe.

PLNU led 33-32 at halftime, but trailed much of the second half. The Sea Lions continue GSAC play this Saturday, when they make a trip up to Fresno Pacific to take on the NAIA #3 Sunbirds.

-Jeremiah Wood