LA GRANDE — Despite a strong second-half push at a comeback, the Eastern Oregon University women’s basketball team dropped its Friday night clash against Lewis-Clark State, 86-73, on Friday, January 5.

The Mountaineers never led during the game, but managed to trim the deficit to two points heading into the fourth quarter. Haley Robinett led the way with 21 points, while Brie Holecek and Bayley Brennan each scored 16. The loss dropped Eastern Oregon’s record on the season to 7-5 overall and 3-4 in Cascade Collegiate Conference play.

Lewis-Clark came out scorching to start the game, shooting 11-19 (57.9%) from the field in the first quarter. Meanwhile, Eastern Oregon struggled at a 5-18 (27.8%) clip. The Warriors extended a 10-point lead, making the game an uphill battle for the Mountaineers early on.

The Mountaineers found a rhythm in the second quarter by attacking the basket and getting to the free-throw line. Eastern Oregon went 8-8 from the free-throw line and out-rebounded Lewis-Clark State 12-6. Even so, Lewis-Clark State shot 8-19 (42.1%) from the field and held a 19-18 advantage in the second quarter to put Eastern Oregon behind 43-32 at halftime.

The third quarter was Eastern Oregon’s best frame, coming very close to a comeback. The Mountaineers shot 10-14 (71.4%) from the field and outscored the Warriors 25-16. A three-pointer by Holecek with seven seconds remaining in the quarter cut the deficit to 59-57 heading into the fourth quarter.

After clawing back into the game, the Mountaineers went flat in the fourth quarter and were outscored 27-16. Lewis-Clark State shot 12-15 (80%) from the field in the final frame and held a 27-16 advantage in the quarter to walk off with an 86-73 victory.

The Mountaineers saw four players score in double figures, while Robinett and Beverly Slater both led the way with eight rebounds each. Slater also recorded seven assists, coming close to a triple double.

Coming off the loss, Eastern Oregon will look to bounce back at home against Walla Walla on Jan. 6. Tip-off is slated for 7 p.m. at Quinn Coliseum.