Manhattan defeats New Jersey Tech 70-58 Eds: APNewsNow. Manhattan 70, New Jersey Tech 58.

Riverdale, N.Y. (AP) Darryl Crawford scored 17 points and Manhattan defeated New Jersey Institute of Technology 70-58 in the season opener for both teams on Saturday.

The Jaspers trailed 12-9 early in the first half, before going on a 12-4 run in the next five minutes. Crawford capped the run on a layup with 6:26 left in the first half for a 24-13 Manhattan lead.

Manhattan held the Highlanders to just 18.5 percent from the field in the first half (5 of 27), while shooting 41.4 percent (12 of 29).

The Jaspers led by as many as 65-50 on a free throw by Antoine Pearson, who finished with 10 points, with 1:59 left to play.

Manhattan's Kevin Laue, who doesn't have a left arm below the elbow, had a rebound in three minutes.

Jheryl Wilson led the Highlanders with 20 points, and Isaiah Wilkerson finished with 17 points and 10 rebounds.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-14-09 1702CST | save this article / add to your favorites list