Brockport, N.Y. – The College at Brockport women's basketball team took to the court for their first matchup of the season Tuesday night against St. John Fisher College. Despite a strong effort, the team came up just short, falling to the Cardinals 54-41.
 
Both teams put up an even fight in the first quarter, with the Golden Eagles maintaining a steady lead throughout. The Green and Gold put up a collective effort, with a number of different players finding the bottom of the net. Senior Emily Nestler got off to a hot start early, putting up five points and an assist for the Golden Eagles in the first four minutes of the game. Kylee Rosbrook, Emily Merrill, Bailey Pratt, and Allison Chiera would each add a basket of their own, putting the team up 15-9 before the end of the quarter.
 
The Golden Eagles struggled to find a rhythm in the second, allowing the Cardinals to go on an 8-0 run to start the quarter. The Cardinals continued to demand the floor until Chiera opened up a door for the Golden Eagles, adding four points to board in the last minute of the game to close the gap.
 
Defense proved to be essential for the Green and Gold in the second half, as the offense struggled to take back a lead. Brockport finished the night having forced 20 turnovers and picking up 11 steals.
 
Chiera lead the Golden Eagles offense, adding 10 points and three rebounds. Merrill and Nestler played well on both sides of the ball, accounting for 17 points, 13 rebounds, and three blocks collectively.
 
The Golden Eagles look to turn their luck around this weekend as they are set to host their Tip-Off Tournament on Friday and Saturday. Brockport faces off against D'Youville College on Friday at 7 p.m.
 
Be sure to stay up to date on all your Golden Eagle news, scores, and awards by following @BportAthletics on Twitter and by like the "Brockport Golden Eagles" Facebook page.