ANCASTER, ON.  Redeemer Basketball hosted the Niagara Knights for a midweek clash Wednesday night. Entering Wednesday, both sides held a 2-6 record. The late semester one match-up would add some much-needed separation near the bottom of the standings. The bottom five teams are separated by only one win. A head-to-head win against the Knights would put the Royals in a strong position heading into the second semester of action. 

The first whistle sounded and both sides came to compete. Niagara jumped to an early lead thanks to their rebounding. Through the first quarter, Niagara held a four-point lead. Redeemer's Robert Mannella had an excellent opening quarter posting 7 points. 

The Knights doubled their lead by halftime, as Niagara led Redeemer 42-34. A key to Niaraga's early success was their ability to spread the ball. Eight different Knights recorded points in the second quarter.

Following the halftime intermission, Redeemer stormed into the second half. The Royals cut the lead to seven entering the fourth quarter. Mannella picked up a team-high five rebounds in the third quarter.

Trailing by seven with ten minutes to play, the Royals needed to step up the offensive pressure. Redeemer guard and PPG leader, Parker Davis got to work. The third-year guard posted 12 fourth-quarter points in an effort to close the gap. Despite the Royals efforts, Niagara managed to weather the storm and maintain their lead. 

Niagara captured the road win over Redeemer 80-72. The Royals are back in action for their final match of the first semester this Saturday at the Redeemer Athletic Centre. The Royals host the Canadore Panthers at 1:00 PM. 

Royals Brendan Morris nears a collegiate Basketball milestone. The third-year guard sits one point shy of his 500th collegiate point. 

Join the Royals Saturday for the Hall of Fame induction of former Royals Badminton Athlete Owen Kurvits at halftime.