WATERLOO, Ont. - Laurier's women's basketball team welcomed a U SPORTS Top 10 opponent to campus for the second time in as many days on Saturday. Sadly, it was a similar result as the #9 Carleton Ravens grabbed a commanding lead early and never looked back, winning the ball game 68-50.

Before the beginning of the game, a ceremonial tip-off took place with the newly-elected Mayor of Waterloo, Dorothy McCabe. It was a very special moment for everyone in attendance as McCabe was a former member of the Golden Hawks teams from 1988-1990.

Once the game began, Laurier came out very strong, outscoring the Ravens 18-14 on efficient shooting and locking up Carleton on the defensive side. The Golden Hawks only allowed six baskets in the first quarter despite the Ravens taking 22 shots. Cassidy Hirtle led the offensive charge with eight points on nearly perfect shooting. 

Laurier was extremely dialed-in from the charity stripe, going 7 for 8 while Carleton only got to the line twice and missed both shots. The Golden Hawks also out-rebounded a tall Carleton team in the first quarter. 

In the second quarter, Carleton somewhat got back into form, shooting 50 percent from three and scoring 15 points off five triples. Laurier's offence slowed down in the second quarter, however, was able to keep the game close due to adequate rebounding and limited turnovers. At the end of the first half, Laurier trailed Carleton 31-30. 

Laurier's struggles began again after the halftime break, recording just 20 points in the entirety of the second half, while the Ravens netted 31. The second half saw Laurier commit nine turnovers and start to get out-rebounded, allowing for several opportunities for Carleton to build their lead and show why they are a nationally ranked team. 

Laurier couldn't convert from behind the arc, going just 3 for 24 in the game, while the Ravens were 11-34.

While the rebounding numbers were even, Laurier committed 17 turnovers throughout the game, which in the end was very costly. Despite that, Laurier did prove that they could keep it close with one of the best teams in the country. Another positive note was Alexa Sawchuk matching a season-high offensive output with 12 points on the night.

TOP PERFORMERS

Laurier Golden Hawks

#6 - F Alexa Sawchuk (Kingston, Ont.)

Alexa played an amazing all-around game, recording 12 points on very efficient shooting with eight rebounds, a block, and a steal.

Carleton Ravens

#4 - Kali Pocrnic

Pocrnic played a very solid game, recording 15 points and five assists along with a steal.

UP NEXT

The Golden Hawks (4-8) host the Windsor Lancers (5-5) on Wednesday, January 111th with hopes of breaking a two-game losing skid. Tip-off is set for 6 PM and tickets are on sale now. Follow @WLUAthletics for live updates and watch live on OUA.tv.