HIALEAH, FL - A game that featured two physical and talented teams, the University of the Virgin Islands was able to get the upper-hand, dealing the Villa Maria Vikings their first loss in nearly two months, 74-69 on Sunday afternoon.

Villa led 35-23 at the break, but Virgin Islands hung tough and was able to force Villa into uncharacteristic turnovers which allowed them to get back into the game.  Despite 23 turnovers, Villa held it's composure and re-gained a six-point edge with 4:41 left before Villa sophomore Daniel Thompson looked as if he had made a three as the shot clock was expiring before the referees inexplicably waved the bucket off, saying the ball had deflected off the hanging wire of the basket.  

Despite the missed call, Villa was still able to hang around before Virgin Islands closed the game on an 18-5 run to seal the deal.  

Freshman Lonnie Taylor (Medina, NY/Medina High School) led Villa with 16 points and 12 rebounds.

Villa falls to 14-2 on the season and will take on Florida National University on Monday evening at 6 p.m.  The Conquistadors are currently 16-5 and ranked #2 in the latest USCAA Division I National Poll.