Allegheny Drops Hiram behind Restich Triple-Double

HIRAM, Ohio – The Allegheny women's basketball team traveled to the campus of Hiram College, looking to snap a three game conference losing streak. The Gators halted the losing streak in a big way behind a pair of double-doubles from juniors Heidi Goeller and Daryl Ford, and the programs first triple-double in over 12 years by sophomore Erica Restich; defeating the Terriers 70-56.

Allegheny would get off to a quick start and never look back, starting the contest on a 13-2 run. From there, the Gators would keep their foot on the throttle, never really allowing Hiram to get within six after the opening 10 minutes.

Allegheny would end the first half just as they started, going on a 13-4 run to take 17 point advantage into halftime.

The Gators would take their largest lead of the game on their first shot of the second half, as freshman Marina Scarantino buried a three to put Allegheny up 20. Hiram would do it's best to fight back in the game; however, the Gators would never allow the Terriers back into the contest as their lead would never get lower than 11.

Restich had a banner night, as she recorded her first career triple-double, and the first for any Gators in more than 12 years. She would pour in 14 points, dish out 10 assists, and pull in an incredible 18 rebounds, which was also a career high.

Restich was not alone, as Goeller and Ford also had fantastic games as each recorded a double-double. Goeller netted a game high 23 points to go along with 10 boards for her eighth double-double of the season. Not to be outdone, Ford dropped in 18 points and reeled in 15 rebounds for her second straight double-double, and seventh of the season.

The Gators did not only do it on the offensive end, they played lock down defense in the first half, forcing Hiram to shoot just 22.2 percent from the floor on 6-27 shooting.

Allegheny would also take it to the Terriers in the paint, allowing Hiram to score just 16 points in the lane, while the Gators scored an impressive 42 points down low.

The win improves Allegheny to 14-8 overall, and 9-4 in conference play. The Gators will be back at home on Saturday, February 11 hosting Denison University in Allegheny's WBCA Play for Kay game. Tip-off is scheduled for 1:00 pm.