Junior Aquillin Hayes will never be down and out, and she proved that on Saturday. After falling hard three times and even being taken out of the game at a point in the game when fouled hard, she came back to help lead University of New Haven Chargers to a 27-8 run to get the win over Pace. New Haven improves to 16-8 (11-7 Northeast-10) with the win.

Hayes finished the game with 16 points, seven boards and four blocks, included one that put a dagger in the hearts of Pace. With the game winding down and time running low for Pace to mount a comeback, they try to hit an easy layup, unfortunately for them, Hayes was not having any part in that as she sent the lay up into the first row of the stands for a block which capped off a strong end of the game for her.

The Chargers struggled to shoot the ball early as the game went to half with Pace leading 25-23, but found their stride as they hit the second half outscoring Pace 33-17. The Chargers shot 31% from the field in the first half, but raised that to 47% in the second to break away with the win.

Pace’s Margo Hackett had a game high in points with 18, while center Kirsten Dodge assed eight points and 11 boards.

The second half was almost a completely different game for the Chargers as they took off with the game, led by Hayes converting and one after and one. She could not miss the way she was playing, really helping the Chargers who needed a spark.

“She brings so much energy,” said coach Ty Grace, “When she plays at a high level the entire team plays off of that.

The Chargers will play their last home game of the season this Wednesday, February 19 at 5:30 p.m. and will recognize the seniors before the game.