FARMINGTON, Maine – The Husson University men's basketball team came up just short in a hard-fought North Atlantic Conference road contest on Saturday afternoon, falling 91–83 to the University of Maine at Farmington at Dearborn Gymnasium.
Husson (5-3, 4-1 NAC) and UMF (9-3, 6-0 NAC) traded punches throughout a fast-paced first half, with the Eagles shooting efficiently from the floor and building momentum behind strong interior play and perimeter shooting. Husson matched Farmington basket for basket early, using a balanced offensive attack to open up a brief lead midway through the half. Senior Eric Ahlers provided a steady presence on both ends, scoring inside and out, while junior Andre McCauley and sophomore Connor Heald helped stretch the defense with timely perimeter looks.
The Beavers answered with a surge late in the half, as both teams ended the opening 20 minutes deadlocked at 45–45. Husson shot over 50 percent from the field in the first half and knocked down seven three-pointers, keeping pace in a high-scoring, back-and-forth opening period.
Farmington opened the second half with increased defensive pressure and took advantage of second-chance opportunities to create separation. The Beavers pushed the tempo and built a double-digit lead midway through the half, but Husson continued to battle, cutting into the deficit behind strong individual efforts from several starters.
Down the stretch, Farmington was able to hang on by controlling the glass and converting at the free-throw line in the final minutes. The Beavers limited Husson to one shot on several key possessions while continuing to attack the basket offensively, forcing the Eagles into foul trouble. Farmington went 15-for-19 at the line for the game and used those late free throws to maintain breathing room as Husson tried to rally. Despite multiple late baskets by the Eagles to keep the game within reach, UMF answered each push and closed out the conference victory on its home floor.
Senior Gil Matondo delivered a strong second-half performance for the Eagles, finishing with 18 points and seven rebounds, while Heald added 18 points on an efficient shooting night. Ahlers chipped in 16 points and six rebounds, and McCauley finished with 14 points, knocking down four three-pointers. Freshman Christian Smith provided a spark off the bench with 10 points, three assists and three blocked shots.
Despite Husson shooting 52.4 percent from the field and 42.3 percent from three-point range for the game, Farmington's rebounding edge and late free throws proved decisive down the stretch.
Husson returns to action on Dec. 29 when it heads to Salem, Virginia for the Roanoke College Tournament, as the Eagles will take on the hosts, No. 13 Roanoke College at 12 p.m.
