Harrogate, TN -- Despite a strong push in the final minutes, Lincoln Memorial could not overcome a persistent deficit as Carson-Newman earned a 74-65 victory in Harrogate on Wednesday night. The Railsplitters found themselves trailing 32-28 at the halftime break after the Eagles used a late first-half surge to take control of the scoreboard. Although Lincoln Memorial remained within striking distance throughout the opening period, they headed to the locker room needing to regroup to stop the momentum building for Carson-Newman.

The second half saw the Railsplitters face an uphill battle as the deficit widened to double digits early in the period. Lincoln Memorial refused to go quietly, mounting a spirited comeback that saw them pull within three points at 61-58 following a three-pointer with 4:31 left on the clock. However, that was as close as the Railsplitters would get, as the Eagles responded with a quick scoring run to push the lead back to nine, effectively icing the game from the free-throw line in the closing seconds.

Jayden Spearman led the Railsplitters with 16 points and five rebounds, connecting on four shots from long range to keep the offense moving. Walter Campbell anchored the interior with a double-double, tallying 13 points and 11 rebounds, while EJ Smith provided 12 points in a reserve role. Ashton Pennamon added nine points and Nate Mims contributed eight rebounds, but the effort fell short of erasing the lead established by Carson-Newman.

Lincoln Memorial will be back on its home court this weekend, playing host to conference-leading Anderson.