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Reading, Pa. (Jan. 28, 2012) - On Saturday afternoon Alvernia University (12-6, 4-4) took on Widener University (13-6, 4-4) in Commonwealth matchup at the Physical Education Center. Widener bested the Crusaders by a score of 99-90.

The fast-paced game saw 11 lead changes and intense competition from both sides. Even though the Crusaders offense exploded for a season high 90 points, they couldn't stop Widener. The Pride had five players score double figures and played a seemingly perfect game offensively.

Alvernia junior guard Josh Vargas (Allentown, Pa./Faith Christian Academy) started the game on fire as he hit his first three shots from beyond the arc and totaled 15 points in the first half. Vargas played 35 minutes and posted 27 points, six assists and four rebounds before fouling out late in the game. 

Matching Vargas' output possession by possession was Widener's forward, Perry Wright. The 6-3 senior scored 21 and brought down 10 rebounds for his first double-double of the season.

With 1:47 remaining in the half, Alvernia freshman forward Terrance Bridgers (Drexel Hill, Pa./Upper Darby) received an ally-oop pass from Vargas that he slammed home to spark the home crowd. Alvernia was able to pull within six points of their rival at half time, 41-35. 

Widener dominated the offensive flow of the second half. After a 3-point play off a foul by Alvernia's scrappy point guard Chris Davis (Norristown, Pa./Norristown), the Crusaders claimed a four point lead--their largest of the game.

Shortly after, Widener regained the lead. The Crusaders made several runs on the Pride and even led by one with 4:13 remaining in the game after Vargas hit a 23-foot 3-pointer.  Widener took the lead right back on a 3 and held the lead the rest of the way.

Widener finished the afternoon shooting 49% from the floor while the Crusaders shot 46%. With the loss, Alvernia slips to 12-6 on the season and 4-4 in the conference in a tie for third with Widener.

Alvernia travels across town on Monday to take on local rival Penn State Berks.

Widener 99, Alvernia 90