The #25 Valparaiso University bowling team closed out its final regular season tune-up prior to the Southland Bowling League Championship on Sunday, finishing up action from the Columbia 300 Music City Classic in Smyrna, Tenn.

How It Happened

• The Crusaders began the day’s bracket play, contested in the best-of-seven baker format, versus Louisiana Tech. Games of 202 and 210 propelled Valpo to an early 2-0 lead, and after a game four victory, the Crusaders led 3-1. But a 193 effort in game five wasn’t enough for a win, and Louisiana Tech claimed each of the final two games as well as Valpo fell 4-3.
• Valpo earned wins in its next match against Elmhurst in games two and five, posting scores of 212 and 234, respectively, in those two victories. But the Crusaders were unable to post a score higher than 163 in any of the other four games, falling to the Bluejays 4-2.
• The Crusaders ended the tournament on a winning note, taking down Mount Aloysius by a 4-2 final. Valpo fell behind one game to none and 2-1, but rallied to claim games four, five and six to earn the victory.

Next Up

The Crusaders (45-51) will now prepare for the 2017 Southland Bowling League Championship, a three-day event which will be contested in Jonesboro, Ark. starting this Friday, March 24.