Middletown, Pa. (Dec. 30, 2018) - Alvernia University (3-10) struggled to find its rhythm in the second half as Penn State Harrisburg (6-5) broke away for a 66-45 win in non-conference women's basketball action at Penn State Harrisburg.

The Golden Wolves were held to just one basket, a layup from Jannelle Robinson, in the opening six minutes of the second half as the Lions built up a 12 point lead. Alvernia was held to just six points in third quarter and were outscored 22-15 in the final quarter en route to the 66-45 loss.

Alvernia was down 6-2 after four minutes of action, but the Golden Wolves tied it up at 6-6 with 4:13 to play in the first quarter following two layups from Torie Zerbe.
The Golden Wolves took an 8-6 lead just over a minute later after a layup from Amber Orban, but the Lions responded with a three point shot to take a 9-8 advantage.

Alvernia was held scoreless the rest of the first quarter, as the Lions took a 16-8 lead into the second quarter.

The Golden Wolves scored two quick baskets to open up the second quarter and cut the Lions lead to four.

The Lions went on an 8-0 run over the next three minutes to extend their lead to 24-12 with seven minutes left in the second quarter.

Alvernia went on a 13-1 run of its own to get within one with 30 seconds to play in the second quarter. The Lions hit a three point shot with 14 seconds left in the half to make it 28-24 going into the break.

The Lions would pull away coming out of the break, holding Alvernia to just six points in the third quarter and just ten points in the first 15 minutes of the second half.

Alvernia shot 46% in the first half, but were held to just 24% in the second half as the Lions pulled away for the win.

The Golden Wolves were 0-16 from beyond the arc. This was the first time Alvernia was held scoreless in three-point range for the first time since falling to Arcadia University on January 3, 2018.

Alvernia was led by Torie Zerbe, who finished the night with ten points, all of which came in the first half, and five rebounds.

Penn State Harrisburg was led by Shanique Mattis. Mattis finished the game with 23 points, six steals, and four rebounds.

Alvernia faces all MAC Commonwealth opponents the rest of the way, starting with a home contest against Stevenson University on Thursday at 8:00 PM.

Penn State Harrisburg 66 Alvernia 45