Falcons Drop the Ball versus Redhawks

TEMPLE TERRACE, Fla. - The Florida College Falcons (7-8, 0-4 SSAC) blew a golden opportunity on Saturday afternoon, losing to the Martin Methodist College Redhawks 80-86.

The Falcons dug themselves a hole, trailing 32-21 with 8 minutes remaining in the first half. They used a 13-4 run to trim the lead to 2 right before halftime. They went into the break down 3.

The Falcons came out firing, going on a 16-4 run to take a 9-point lead with 14:47 left in the game after three Matt Simpson free throws. Over the next 8 minutes the Redhawks went on a 25-7 run to take an 8-point lead with 6:15 remaining. From there FC used a 16-6 run to take a two point lead with 2 minutes remaining, 80-78. The Redhawks would score the last 8 points of the game, hitting a couple tough, big shots and shutting down the Falcon offense.

The Falcons were led in scoring by senior Stefan Nakic-Vojnovic with 21 points and 11 rebounds. It's Nakic-Vojnovic's seventh double-double of the year, second in the conference. Milz Tatum had a terrific game, posting 20 points, 6 rebounds, and 11 assists, while also committing 0 turnovers. Matt Simpson was below his average but continuted his streak of double-digit performances. He dropped 18 in the loss on 7-of-15 shooting. Andrew Voss contributed 10 points and seven rebounds to round out the double-figure scorers.

The Falcons allowed 19 offensive rebounds to Martin, compared to just 7 for the home team. FC shot better from the field (47% to 43%), better from three (36% to 35%) and better from the free throw line (80% to 60%) than the Redhawks, yet lost the game by six. MMC shot 14 more times than FC and it was ultimately the difference. It was a low turnover game for both teams. MMC had 8 while FC had 9. MMC had 6 in double figures with Marion Tomonique leading the way with 18 points and 9 rebounds, 6 of which were offensive.

"This is another super frustrating loss," said associate head coach Chase Teichmann. "They just wanted it more than us, period. Credit to Martin for earning it and taking it from us. We've got to get tougher and rebound the ball better."

The Falcons remain on their home stand next week, with Middle Georgia State coming to town Thursday night and then Faulkner (Ala.) on Saturday.