Fayetteville, N.C. - The Monarchs of Methodist University took a 10-0 lead into the half and scored a pair of late touchdowns to secure a 24-10 victory over North Carolina Wesleyan in Saturday's USA South football action in Fayetteville. The conference win was the first for MU this season, while the Blue & Gold now stand at 2-4 in league play.
The Bishops struggled to find an offensive rhythm in the first half, committing four turnovers (two fumbles, two interceptions) in six possessions.
Wesleyan looked to get on track in the third quarter after putting together a sustained drive to open the period. Senior Kevin Quicker proceeded to boot home a program-record 47-yard field goal to make the score 10-3 with plenty of time remaining.
The score remained 10-3 entering the fourth until the Monarchs (2-7, 1-5 USA South) managed a pair of rushing touchdowns inside of five minutes to go up 24-3. NCWC junior quarterback John Jackson connected with Stephen Womble from 35 yards out with 1:22 remaining, but it was too little too late as the Bishops suffered the 14-point setback.
The Bishops led several statistical categories, including a 23-13 advantage in first downs and 346-278 advantage in total yardage. Wesleyan, however committed seven turnovers on the day and twice turned the ball over on downs.
Jackson finished 11-of-17 for 143 yards, while Tazmon Foster led the defensive effort with 12 tackles.
Wesleyan (2-7, 2-4 USA South) wraps up it 2011 season next Saturday at home when the Bishops host Shenandoah University. Kickoff is slated for 1:00 p.m. at the Northern Nash Football Complex.