Potsdam, NY – For the second time this season, Rensselaer proved to be a tough match up for the Clarkson University Women’s Basketball teams, as the Engineers opened up a significant lead in the first half and cruised to a 71-40 Liberty League victory Friday evening at Alumni Gymnasium.

The Golden Knights fell to 4-14 overall and 1-7 in the Liberty League, while the Engineers improved their mark to 9-10 and 5-3. Clarkson looks to end its short two-game losing streak on Saturday when the team hosts Vassar College.

Rensselaer used its superiority on the interior to take control of the game early. With a front line that some men’s teams would envy, the Engineers held a 26-12 edge in rebounds, greatly increasing their second chance opportunities while limiting Clarkson’s. The Knights pulled to within 14-11 after a 3-point field goal from Sierra Noles (Averill Park, NY) midway through the half, but Rensselaer made a pair of baskets to change the momentum forcing a timeout by the Knights. The streak continued for the Engineers, however, as they finished the half on a 25-7 run.

The second half continued in the same fashion as the first as the Engineers utilized their rebounding advantage while altering many Clarkson shots. While the Knights would show sparks with the occasional 3-pointer or mini-run, Rensselaer always had an answer, usually coming in the form of Sarah Wetmore, who contributed 14 points and 7 rebounds, shooting 5-for-10 from the field.

Also chipping in for the Engineers was Kyleigh Oliveira, who produced 12 points and 8 rebounds in just 17 minutes of action off the bench. Allison Connor tossed in 10 points on 4-for-5 shooting, and Nicole Monroe had 10 points on 5-for-6 shooting for the Engineers.

For Clarkson, sophomore Noelle Miller (Hamburg, NY) had 11 points as the only player in double figures. Classmate Jazmyn Haywood (Rochester, NY) also had seven points in 14 minutes off the bench for Clarkson.