KEUKA PARK, NY— The Keuka Wolves avenged an earlier loss to the Houghton Highlanders with an strong defensive performance, claiming a 69-47 victory on Saturday afternoon.
 
The Wolves dominated the first half, knocking down 55 percent of their shots, including 4-of-7 from beyond the three-point line and 9-of-12 from the free throw line, as they built an 18-point lead at the half.
 
While the Highlanders defense shored up in the second half, their offensive production plummeted.  Houghton hit only 19 percent of their shots in the final 20 minutes Keuka maintained a sizable advantage throughout.
 
GAME VITALS
Score: Houghton – 47| Keuka – 69
Records: Houghton: 12-10 (7-6 Empire 8) | Keuka: 7-14 (5-9 Empire 8)
Venue: JMW Recreation and Athletics Center, Keuka College | Attendance: 178

NOTABLE STATS
>> Lou Bellamy led the Highlanders with 14 points and eight rebounds, while Jajuan Preaster chipped in nine points and seven boards.
 
>> Akinlana Popoola drained 22 points to lead the Wolves, while Makya Morrison and Amar Jackson added 16 and 13 points apiece, respectively.
 
COACH'S CORNER
"That was unfortunate. To be up 9-0 and have it turn upside down like that so quickly was surprising.

"Our first half defense and rebounding was not what we needed. I also don't think that there will be many halves when we shoot 19% like we did in the second half.

"Some old habits reared their heads. We'll need to double down on getting rid of those this week in practice." -- Head Coach Jeremy Bialek

UP NEXT
The Highlanders return to the Nielsen Center next Friday, February 14 for a rematch with the SUNY Geneseo Knights at 7:30 p.m.  Houghton defeated Geneseo earlier this season, 82-65.