The University of Mary Washington men's basketball team overcame an 18-point first half deficit, and nearly came all the way back in the final minute before falling at Salisbury University, 79-73, on Saturday afternoon in Capital Athletic Conference action. The Eagles fall to 7-8 overall and 1-3 in CAC play.

Salisbury grabbed the lead early, and extended the lead to 18 points thanks to the long range shooting of Chris Viqueira, who connected on his first six three-point attempts. The Sea Gulls led, 30-12, with 6:11 remaining in the first half, but UMW went on a 17-3 run to close the half to close the deficit to 33-29 at intermission.

The Sea Gulls started strong in the second half as well, making four three pointers in the first four minutes to up the lead to 10 at 47-37. The Sea Gulls had several opportunities to put UMW away, but the Eagles clawed back to cut the deficit to seven at 75-68 with 27 seconds left. A pair of Antonio ortega free throws cut the deficit to 75-70, and after a Salisbury turnover, Taylor Johnson hit a three pointer to cut the score to 75-73 with 12 seconds left. The Sea Gulls connected on four free throws as time expired for the six-point win.

Mary Washington was led by Sean Armstrong, who scored 14 points and grabbed nine rebounds in 26 minutes before fouling out. In all, the Eagles were whistled for 29 fouls to 17 for the hosts. Johnson scored 17 for UMW, with Bradley Riester adding 13. Salisbury was led by Viqueira's 29 points.

The Eagles shot 44.6 % form the floor (25-56) including 7-20 on three pointers, and went 16-21 from the free throw line. Salisbury made just 19 field goals (19-42), but included in that number were 13-25 three point attempts, and was 28-35 at the line. The Eagles led in rebounds, 29-28, and forced 24 Sea Gull turnovers.

UZMW will return to action on Wednesday evening when they host #9 St. Mary's College at 8:00 p.m.