FOND DU LAC, Wis. - In a game that saw four of the five Sabre starters hit double figures in scoring, Marian University men's basketball (6-15, 5-11 NACC) fell to Concordia Chicago in a close contest 80-77.

The game was close throughout with Marian taking a 13-11 lead early in the first half. The Cougars would tie the game at 15 a piece minutes later. Marian would make an 8-0 run to take a 36-28 lead until Concordia Chicago answered back. Both teams traded baskets to end the half with Marian taking a 43-41 lead into the intermission break.

The Sabres used the halftime break to expand their lead to 50-44 early in the half. Concordia Chicago would not go away quietly as they slowly chipped away at the Sabre lead and cut it to 69-65 with under eight minutes to go. CUC then tied the game at 71 apiece with three minutes left in regulation. The following minutes saw the Cougars and Sabres both hold a one-point lead. A pair of clutch Sabre free throws would knot the game at 77 with 32 seconds left. Concordia Chicago would sink a three-pointer and a Sabre three-pointer to tie the game would fall short sealing the victory for the Cougars.

Of the four Sabres to reach double figures for the day, junior Alex Manhardt led the Sabres finishing with 19 points and eight rebounds. Sophomore Evan Hansen recorded 15 points and six rebounds while junior Reggie Roemer collected his first double-double of the season with 12 points and 10 rebounds. Freshmen Will Polczynski rounded out the scoring for the Sabres with 10 points and five rebounds.

The Sabres travel to MSOE Monday, Feb. 6 for a 7 p.m. tip and then head to Edgewood, Wednesday, Feb. 7 also for a 7 p.m. tip before the final homestand of the season.