Westminster, Md. (Nov. 16, 2014) - Alvernia University (1-1) built a 13-point first half lead then held off a late comeback effort from Penn State-Harrisburg (0-2) in a 78-67 win Sunday afternoon in the consolation game of the McDaniel College Women's Basketball Tip-Off Tournament.

The Crusaders built the second half lead to as many as 17 points, 50-33 with 13:22 to play on a pair of free throws from junior Stevie Fortna, but the Lions put together an 18-5 run over the next six minutes to cut the gap back to just four points, 55-51 with 7:51 to go.

The lead was still four points two minutes later when junior Chelsea Ebersole hit a 3 to spark an 11-1 run that put the Crusaders fomfortably ahead.

Sophomore Tyra Roberts was one of five players in double figures for the Crusaders with a team-high 16 points and was named to the All-Tournament Team.  Morgan Downs scored 12 points and added nine rebounds.  Jenna Wolff went 4-for-4 from the 3-point arc for 12 points and Kaitlyn Yoh and Ebersole scored 10 points apiece.

Sunday's win was the first career win for Alvernia head coach Jen Sawyer.

The Crusaders open the conference schedule next Saturday hosting Lycoming College.

Alvernia 78, Penn State-Harrisburg 67