RALEIGH, N.C. — The Meredith College Avenging Angels basketball team lost to USA South rival Methodist University Saturday afternoon by a score of 60-49. Gabi Jessup led the Angels with 20 points as she went 7-12 from the field.

The game started with a back-and-forth effort by both teams. Jessup jumpstarted the offense with nine points in the first quarter as Meredith held an 11-8 advantage heading into the second period.

The second quarter continued with more of the same as Jessup did not miss from the field. As time expired Jessi Hayes closed out the half with a deep three pointer on a Kim Hinton assist. Meredith shot 38.2 percent from the field as the Angels maintained a 26-23 lead at the break.

But Methodist changed the story in the second half. The Monarchs' full court press launched a 12-0 run to begin the third frame. The pressure rattled Meredith, and the Avenging Angels hit just 4-of-16 shots during the period. MU shot 63.2 percent from the field during the 10-minutes of play to claim a 49-37 lead heading into the final stanza.

Meredith could not keep pace with the Monarchs, and Methodist maintained the advantage the rest of the way.

Jessup's 20 points eclipsed her 7.3 per game average, and Hayes added 12 points, six assists, and six rebounds on the day. Hinton and Raven Gregory combined for 16 boards to help Meredith keep a physical presence inside the paint.

Alexis Wallace, Jasmine Canady, and Ayanna Peques finished in double figures for the Monarchs. Peques led the team with 16 points, six rebounds and three blocks, and Wallace posted a double-double with 12 points, 10 boards.

With the loss Meredith dropped to 6-13 overall (4-7 USA South) as they prepare to host non-conference foe Roanoke College on Senior Night this Thursday evening. Tipoff is slated for 7 p.m. following a brief ceremony honoring seniors Gregory and Hinton, along with recent graduate Laquetta Hairston. Follow the action live HERE.