HOUGHTON, N.Y.— The Women's Basketball team put on an exciting show in Saturday afternoon's contest against the Saxons of Alfred University. Down 9 points with 30 seconds remaining in the game, Houghton went to work and minimized the gap rapidly. Hannah Manwaring's (Barton, NY, Tioga Central HS) 3-point buzzer beater made for a thrilling finish to the game, however, Houghton just fell short 62-61

With a 12-6 Alfred run lead in the first half, Houghton's Manwaring was able to successfully execute a 3-pointer to reduce the deficit. The Saxons rallied 9 points consecutively, putting the Highlanders at a big disadvantage.

Down 14 points with just over 7 minutes left in the first half, Maisie Pipher (Lowman, NY, Twin Tiers Christian) and Manwaring took turns scoring. Because of Alfred's ability to score as well, the two Highlanders' layups and free throws closed out the first half 32-21.

The two teams went neck and neck in the first 5 minutes of the second period. For every Saxon point credited, Houghton earned 2.

Pipher, Manwaring, and Hannah Fink (Coudersport, PA, Coudersport HS) all teamed up to minimize the gap to 3 points; 48-45 with 6:58 remaining in the game.

The Saxons managed to regain momentum to take a 9 point lead with 30 seconds left in the game. This momentum was soon gone, compliments to Houghton's Pipher and Manwaring. With 11 seconds left on the clock and down 4 points, Manwaring's 3-point buzzer beater brought the Highlanders within 1 point of tying the game. Unfortunately, the clock ran out and Houghton fell short 62-61.

Manwaring was credited with an impressive 25 points and 2 steals on the night, while going 4-10 at the 3-point arc and 5-7 at the free throw line. Pipher followed with 17 points and 4 blocks, while Fink 9 earned points on the night.

The Highlanders (4-17,1-12) are back in action on Wednesday, February 11^th where they play away against Hilbert College at 6:00 p.m.