By
Monte Perez
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LEESBURG, Fla. — The University of Fort Lauderdale women's basketball team spoiled a historic night for Beacon. The Eagles jumped out to an early lead and never looking back winning, 51-41.
Playing in front of a packed, hostile crowd at Beacon College's brand-new gymnasium for their home opener, the Eagles showcased poise and defensive intensity to silence the partisan atmosphere. UFTL immediately set the tone in the opening frame, taking a 12-7 lead after the first quarter before expanding the advantage to 19-12 at halftime. The Eagles then put the game out of reach in the third period, suffocating the Beacon offense to build a commanding 34-20 cushion heading into the final stanza.
Monique Taylor delivered a stellar performance to lead the charge, posting a game-high 22 points alongside 13 impressive rebounds to pace the Eagles in both major statistical categories.
UFTL dominated the glass all evening, aided by strong interior contributions across the roster. Tiyana Snowden notched a crucial double-double with 10 points and 13 boards, while Samantha Soto anchored a relentless defensive effort by tallying 8 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 steals. Alyssa Johnson also controlled the paint, grabbing 10 rebounds—including 7 coming on the offensive glass to secure extra possessions.
With the momentum of their first victory secured, UFTL hits the road quickly. The Eagles travel to face Florida Polytechnic University on Thursday, October 29th, before a gritty home-and-home series against Ave Maria on October 31st and November 2nd.