GRESHAM, Ore. - Portland CC suffered a tough loss at Mt. Hood CC yesterday, 84-77, putting a dent in their playoff hopes with one more game to play.

The result creates a three-way battle for the 4th and final post-season spot in the NWAC South standings. The Panthers are deadlocked with Mt. Hood and Umpqua with seven wins, but the Saints and Riverhawks have played two fewer games than PCC.

A tough first half was the deciding factor PCC versus MHCC, as the Panthers shot just 35 percent which allowed the Saints to build an 11 point lead by halftime (38-27)

The offensive output improved dramatically in the second half, but MHCC matched the scoring surge and held off Portland for the victory.

Hayden Rose carried the load again for PCC, dropping a career best 37 points on 12- of 20 shooting. Josh Lincoln added 24 points on 8 of 9 shooting.

PCC will conclude their regular season on Saturday, March 4, hosting Southwestern Oregon.