The Lions from Behrend opened the game on a 7-0 run and led 13-2 before the home team got hardly any offensive output. Freshman guard Andrea Mortimer scored the first four points of a 10-0 Altoona run that made the game interesting for most of the first half. But Behrend used a good Anne Priester lay up with 1:07 to play in the period to extend the visitors' lead to 10 before the break.
Leading 35-27 at the half, Behrend again came out of the locker room by using a 7-0 run capped off by a Kayla McLaughlin three pointer to increase the lead to 15. The lead remained in double digits throughout the half as Altoona was unable to get any closer than eight.
Mortimer had another career game, netting 18 points, grabbing five boards, and nabbing four steals. Juniors Brittany Poorman and Erin McGowan chipped in with 13 apiece. Behrend also placed three players in double digits led by Brittany Mays' 18 points.
Altoona made just 16 field goals on the day compared to 25 by the visitors. Both teams were spectacular from the free throw line in what was an extremely physical contest. Behrend shot 24-31 from the stripe while Altoona 25-30 in the losing effort.
Altoona is back in action on Monday as they travel to St. Vincents College in Latrobe for a non-conference showdown at 7 PM. The squad returns to AMCC play on Wednesday, January 10, for a 6 PM tip at Frostburg State.