UTICA, N.Y. – A month after putting together their best offensive performance of the season in a 40-point blowout win over Utica, the Houghton women's basketball team struggled to a 69-59 road loss in the re-match Saturday.

Early on, it looked as if the Highlanders were going to cruise to another easy win. But after the visitors jumped out to a 25-16 lead with just three minutes gone in the second quarter, the host Pioneers rallied to close the half on an 18-2 run and took a 34-27 halftime lead. The second half was controlled by Utica who extended the lead to as many as 15 midway through the third quarter. The Highlanders cut the margin to 10 at the end of the quarter, 55-45, but a quick 6-0 run to start the fourth gave the hosts their biggest lead of the day at 16 points. Houghton methodically chipped away at the lead, cutting the deficit to six points with two minutes left, but they wouldn't score again down the stretch. Utica secured the win with four free throws in the final minute.

GAME VITALS
Score: Houghton – 59 | Utica – 69
Records: Houghton 11-13 (4-11 E8) | Utica 8-16 (3-12 E8)
Location: Harold T. Clark Athletic Center | Utica College | Utica, NY

NOTABLE STATS

• Despite coming up short on the scoreboard, the Highlanders outshot the Pioneers from the field (42.9 percent to 40 percent) and from long-range (31.6 percent to 26.1 percent). The teams each made 24 field goals and six three pointers, but the Pioneers were 15 for 18 from the charity stripe compared to Houghton's 5 for 8 showing.
• Houghton also held a 33-31 edge in rebounding, but was stymied by 22 turnovers.
• Emily Swanson was the only Highlander in double figures with 16 points. She also pulled down a team high seven rebounds. Alex Steele added eight points, while Cori Beck had a team high seven assists. 

UP NEXT
The Highlanders will close out their season hosting St. John Fisher on Tuesday at 5:30 p.m.