Similar to a struggling closer in baseball, the Bobcats just can't get that final out.
In its last two games, Ohio led late, only to see itself on the losing side after the final buzzer.
We just need gutsy performances
coach Semeka Randall said. We have to make big plays down the stretch.
After finding themselves out of games at the beginning of MAC play, the Bobcats have been in position to win their last three matchups.
But without a lot of experience in close games this season, the Bobcats (5-15, 1-6 Mid-American Conference) looked tentative down the stretch against Eastern Michigan and Central Michigan.
We haven't been in this situation in a while guard Jenny Poff said. I think we just need to come down at the end knowing that we're going to get a stop.
A short bench also hurt the Bobcats in the final minutes Wednesday. The reserves played well, but the losses of Da'Keisha Mann (suspension), Thia Gholson (injury) and Kamille Buckner (foul out) gave the Eagles a better shot at coming back.
The losses sting, but the performances of the Bobcat defense put the team in a position to win.
The Eagles and Chippewas both came into the games in the top three in the MAC in scoring, and Ohio held both well below their averages.
Our defense is our baby Randall said. We're gonna ride it until the wheels come off.
The Bobcats' 2-3 zone has not allowed many opportunities to their opponents. Teams have tried to make extra passes to get looks, but Ohio has shifted effectively to cover the ball-handler.
Poff said the Bobcats build their philosophy around their defensive ability, so their latest games have reinforced their confidence.
Ball State (9-11, 3-4 MAC) comes to The Convo tomorrow but with a little less firepower than the last two Ohio opponents.
With their intensity on defense back to form, the Bobcats will try to avoid the need for the late-game situations the last two games have called for.
When we come out and we play defense we hold teams like Central and Eastern down on offense
Poff said. When we come out and do that
that's when we're successful.
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Sports
Will Frasure
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