NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – Despite three players in double-figures, the Niagara University women’s basketball team dropped a 76-58 decision to the Iona Gaels on Sunday afternoon. The setback puts Niagara at 5-17 (3-8 MAAC).

Head coach Kendra Faustin wasn’t happy with the end result, but definately sees the team getting stronger and picking up steam.

“We did have some great individual performances today, but we are definately getting ourselves into positions to be in games,” stated Faustin. “We are still trying to learn how to get over the hump.”

The first half started quickly for Iona, as they sprinted out to a 5-0 lead. After a Thazina Cook layup, Niagara was down 19-7 early, but a Jennifer McNamee (Oxford, Ohio) trey brought the Purple Eagles within five at 23-18. Niagara would keep chipping away at a surging Iona offense, as the Purple Eagles would only be down 35-31 at the half after a jumper by Liz Flooks (White Plains, N.Y.). Flooks led all scorers with 10 points in the first half.

The second half saw the Gaels pull away. After another McNamee three-pointer, the Purple Eagles were only down 49-45 with 12 minutes to go. Iona then took a four point lead and turned it into a 13 point lead in a two minute span. Despite Niagara’s best efforts, the Gaels led by double-digits the rest of the way. Flooks finished 17 points while senior Michelle Manfredi (Jefferson Hills, Pa.) had 15 points and Sarah Wilson (Saint Catherines, Ont.) finished with 12 points. Lauren DeFalco netted 17 for Iona.

The Purple Eagles are back in action on Friday night as they host Marist. Tip off is at 7 pm.