NIAGARA UNIVERSITY, N.Y. - Niagara's struggles continued Thursday night as rival Canisius pulled away for a 70-53 victory in the Battle of the Bridge matchup at the Gallagher Center.
 
How it Happened
The Purple Eagles (1-17, 0-10 MAAC) fell behind early and could never fully recover, trailing by as many as 20 points in what became their 12th straight loss this season. After a cold-shooting first quarter where they hit just 18.8 percent from the field and fell behind 21-8, Niagara showed signs of life in the second period but still entered halftime trailing 39-25.


Lore Porter led Niagara with 11 points, including three 3-pointers, while Safiatu Kolliegbo and Talia Dial added 12 and 11 points respectively. Kolliegbo also provided a defensive spark with two blocks.
 
Despite outscoring Canisius 15-13 in the third quarter, Niagara couldn't get closer than 14 points in the second half. The Golden Griffins (5-15, 4-6 MAAC) controlled the glass with a 41-26 rebounding advantage and shot a season-high 52.6 percent from the field compared to Niagara's 31.7 percent.
 
Niagara Notes
• Thursday marked the 106th meeting all-time between Niagara and Canisius, with the Golden Griffins taking a 62-44 series lead.
• Niagara's 12 game losing streak is the programs longest since 2010-11 when it
• The Purple Eagles forced 34 Golden Griffin turnovers, its third most in a game this season and second most in league play.
•  Porter notched her first double digit performance since Jan. 4 against Mount St. Mary's. The Woodbridge, Va., native also made a season-high three 3-pointers.
• Jordyn Williams finished with a team-best three assists – a season-high for the freshman. She also added five steals, her second-highest total this season.
 
Up Next
Niagara will host Merrimack on Thursday, Feb. 6 at 6 p.m. inside the Gallagher Center.