By Nick Porter

FREDERICKSBURG, Va.— With two must-win games for a chance to contend for the sixth seed of the CAC postseason tournament, the Southern Virginia men's basketball team came up empty on the road at the University of Mary Washington in a 71-59 defeat, dashing its last hopes of a playoff spot.

In the first possession of the game, Mary Washington (6-17, 6-10 CAC) guard Brent Mahony hit a three-pointer late in the shot clock to rocket the Eagles into a quick lead, a lead that the Knights (6-16, 4-12 CAC) would never get back.

Southern Virginia battled for the first twelve minutes of the game, keeping the lead between one and five, until the Eagles went on a 20-5 run in the last eight minutes of the half to go into the break with a 17-point lead.

The ensuing half would be just as frustrating for the Knights, who never cut the lead to single digits. Despite an inspired 11-minute performance by freshman guard Jordin McGuigan, the Eagles held the Knights at bay. McGuigan led all Knights will 13 points on 4-4 shooting from the field, three treys and a pair of free throws.

"This was our playoff game," said Southern Virginia head coach Tony Caputo, "We knew we had to win in order to have a chance at the CAC tournament. The guys gave a good effort and played their hearts out."

Knight guards Kevin Walker and Kyle Dragnich would chip in 11 and 10 points, respectively. Dragnich led the team with seven rebounds, while Walker finished with six steals and six boards.

Senior Taylor Johnson led all players with 19 points for the Eagles.

The Knights return home tomorrow for a non-conference contest against The Apprentice School at 6 p.m. at Knight Sports Arena.