USF 72, Youngstown State 54: Bulls knock off rust to beat Penguins

The Bulls, playing their first game since December 5th, struggled in the first half against Youngstown State, going in the locker-room tied at 33. USF came out flat in the second half, but at the 15 minute mark the Bulls took control, outscoring the Penguins 39 to 21 in the second half.

USF was led by Victor Rudd who had a complete game with 16 points and a career high 16 rebounds. Anthony Collins had 14 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds, putting in a complete game. Toarlyn Fitzpatrick had 11 points and 6 rebounds. Jawanza Poland had 8 points and Martino Brock had 7 points and 2 rebounds as the Bulls play shorthanded without shooting guards Shaun Noriega (foot) and Javontae Hawkins (back). The starters played well, dealt with a tough Youngstown team and got the win. USF shot 44% from the floor on the night and out-rebounded the Penguins 45 to 35, dominating a smaller Youngstown lineup.

Youngstown was led by Kendrick Perry who had 15 points, Bobby Hain had 11 points and 7 rebounds in just 21 minutes of action.

It was an ugly first half for USf, but they were able to snap out of it late and pull ahead and take care of business on their home court (maybe Coach Taggart in the building had something to do with it). The Bulls will take on Bowling Green on Friday at 7PM in the Sun Dome as they look to notch another important non-conference game.