NIAGARA UNIV., N.Y. - The Niagara Purple Eagles were edged in their conference opener by the Saint Peter's Peahens, 59-55, on Sunday at the Gallagher Center.

"I thought it was a team effort to get back into the game," head coach Kendra Faustin.  "We took care of the ball in the second half much better, but we struggled on the boards." 

Niagara (1-11, 0-1 MAAC) was facing a 23-15 deficit with 7:15 left in the first half when it went on a 20-7 run for a 35-30 lead at 14:14 in the second half; the Purple Eagles forced 11 turnovers during the span. Both teams exchanged leads over the next 12 minutes, but the Peahens (1-11, 1-0 MAAC) took a six-point lead with 2:34 left to setup an exciting ending.

Liz Flooks connected on consecutive 3-pointers to bring the Purple Eagles to 55-53 with 1:17 remaining and on NU's next possession Meghan Waterman drove past her defender for a layup to tie the game at 55-55 with 27 seconds left. After Niagara forced a turnover, the Purple Eagles had it taken away on their next possession. SPC's Aminah Davis was fouled with nine seconds left and she made both free throws to give them a 57-55 lead.

With five seconds left, Ali Morris' inbound lob pass from halfcourt found Shy Britton at the basket and was fouled. The freshman, however, missed the first one and missed the second one intentionally in an effort to get the rebound, but the Peahens collected their 51st rebound of the game. SPC's Quiana Porter made two free throws to seal the game.

"We went to Meghan down the stretch to  get scores and (she) got it done," Faustin said. "Ali did a really nice job at point guard tonight.  We executed down the stretch and that is a testament to her for getting people where they need to be."  

Niagara forced 22 turnovers in the game, but was outrebounded 51-31, including 21-7 on the offensive end. Flooks led Niagara in scoring with 14 points and Britton added 10 points and seven rebounds.

The Purple Eagles will host the Fairfield Stags on Tuesday, Jan. 4 at 7 p.m. for their next game. There will be parking restrictions for fans due to the 2011 IIHF World Junior Championships at Dwyer Arena. For more information click here.