Box Score l Updated Stats

ROCHESTER, NY – Host Nazareth built a 12-point halftime lead and held on for a 56-49 win over Elmira College Thursday on Senior Night.  The Golden Flyers honored their lone senior, Sam Sorge, who finished with 14 points (5-for-13) in the win. 

Nazareth moves to 10-12 overall and 6-7 in Empire 8 play, while Elmira falls to 6-16 and 2-11, respectively.

After holding a 31-19 lead at the break, Nazareth managed just five field goals (5-for-19) in the second half. 

The Soaring Eagles were able to claw back into the contest and got as close as 48-45 with 6:17 remaining. 

Lauren Franklin connected on a jumper to make it 53-49 at the two-minute mark, however, Elmira would not score the rest of the contest. 

Each squad took some time to settle into the game, combining for 14 turnovers in the first 10 minutes.  Elmira made just two shots in the opening quarter, allowing Nazareth to jump out to a 13-6 margin. 

Nazareth connected on back-to-back 3-pointers from Sorge and Kristen Simmons to open a 21-7 lead with 6:49 to play in the half.

After Elmira sliced the lead to 10, Rachel Benedict put back a rebound late in the half.  It was 31-19 at the break thanks to 8-for-13 (62 percent) from the floor from the Golden Flyers in the second quarter.

Nazareth went 4-for-13 in the third quarter, allowing Elmira come within 46-37.

Samantha Peebles led Nazareth with 17 points and grabbed seven rebounds. 

Lizzie Straub and Simmons each chipped in five points apiece. 

Nazareth travels to East Avenue rival St. John Fisher on Saturday or a 2 p.m. contest.