WEST LIBERTY, W.Va. - The Fairmont State University men's basketball team ventured to face rival, West Liberty. Despite being tied at the half, the Falcons struggled in the second half as they fell, 85-60.

Fairmont State (17-7, 10-7) had a strong start to the game, scoring the first eight points with six from Zyon Dobbs. The visitors held the advantage until West Liberty (19-5, 13-3) netted the six-straight to make it a 12-9 game with 13:34 on the clock.

The Falcons held the narrowest of advantage until the Hilltoppers made four-straight free throws to jump ahead 22-20 as 6:46 remained in the half. Following an evening of the score, the home side went on a 9-0 run but the visitors had an answer. A 10-3 run by FSU made it just a two-point game (34-32) with over two minutes to go. 

Down the stretch, West Liberty grew its lead back to four before Tommy Williams went 4-4 from the free throw line to even the game at 38 going into the half.

Opening the second half, Fairmont State scored the opening three points. Unfortunately, the Falcons struggled as they went scoreless over the next seven-plus minutes meanwhile West Liberty dropped 19-straight and led 57-41 with 11:03 left in regulation.

David Jolinder hit a three to end the stretch but the damage was done. That point forward, the home side led by no less than 13 points as it went on to the 25-point victory.

Jolinder led the Falcons with 18 points. Williams and Dobbs were the others to join him double figures with 14 and 10 points, respectively.

Fairmont State remains on the road on Wednesday, February 21 against Salem University. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m.