SALEM, West Virginia - With a complete team win over Alderson Broaddus on Thursday, the Salem women's basketball team had their work cut out for them as they faced off with the 2nd place team in the Mountain East Conference, the Charleston Golden Eagles. The Tigers played well, but they were foiled by a late Charleston rally 55-53. 

In the first quarter, it was Charleston who took early control of the game. However, the Tigers battled back behind some key baskets scored by Anna Machytkova. After the Salem run at the end of the quarter, Charleston held a narrow 17-15 advantage. 

In the second period, Salem continued their comeback behind some strong interior play offensively from Liliani Krause. The Tigers brought the game back level, and then put their gas on the accelerator thanks to some big shots from Emerson Wells and Nerea Arambarri Fernandez. By the end of the period, Salem held a 33-27 over Charleston. 

In the third, Salem had their hands full as Charleston make some adjustments in the intermission to eat away at the Tiger's advantage. Despite the constant Charleston pressure, the game remained level at 41-41 by the end of the third quarter. 

In the final period, the game remained neck and neck as both teams traded blows down the stretch. With the game tied in the final moments, Salem would be undone by two Golden Eagle free throws. Charleston would pull away with a 55-53 hard fought win. 

On the stats sheet for the Tigers, Salem was led by Anna Machytkova with 15 points and 7 rebounds. Liliani Krause contributed 11 points and 7 rebounds, and Nerea Arambarri Fernandez chipped in 10 points. 

Despite the tough scoreline tonight, Salem will get one more chance to get a win before the holiday break as they are set to take on West Virginia State on the road on Monday, December 19th at 2 PM.