Jan. 2, 2011

Box Score

CHICAGO - Visiting Cleveland State used a 27-6 run that bridged the two halves to take control and Loyola shot just 36% from the floor in a 76-58 loss to the Vikings this afternoon at the Gentile Center. Loyola (7-6, 1-1 Horizon) settles for a split on the opening weekend of conference play, as does Cleveland State which moves to 8-5 (1-1).

"For whatever reason we just did not come out with a lot of energy today," said head coach Eric Simpson. "We have almost a full week to prepare for UIC and we will use that time to get better."

Loyola rode the hot hand of Brittany Boeke early, as the senior center scored 11 of LU's first 19 points to help the Ramblers to a 19-15 lead just over eight minutes into the game. However, a three-pointer from Honesty King capped a 13-2 CSU run that gave the Vikings a 28-21 lead and a Takima Keane three-pointer in the final minute sent the visitors to the locker room with a 40-27 lead. After opening the game by hitting seven of its first 14 shots, the Ramblers went cold, shooting just 5-of-19 the rest of the period.

Cleveland State carried its momentum over into the second half, scoring the first seven points to force a quick Loyola timeout. Every time the Ramblers strung together a couple of baskets, Cleveland State had an answer and Loyola was unable to make a sizable dent in the deficit.

Loyola finished the game shooting 36% from the floor while Cleveland State connected at a 44% clip, including a season-high 10 three-pointers.

Boeke finished with 13 points (6-8 FGs) and seven rebounds to lead the Ramblers. Ellen Ayoub added nine points with Lindsey Sebetic, Katie Kortekamp and Abby Skube all adding eight apiece.

Loyola returns to action next Saturday (Jan. 8) when it hosts UIC at the Gentile Center. Tipoff is scheduled for 12:30 p.m.