Bjelko scores 17 in loss to Holy Cross

SMITHFIELD, R.I. - Brooke Bjelko and Mariona Planes Fortuny of the Bryant University women's basketball team reached double figures in the 67-49 loss to Holy Cross this afternoon at the Chace Athletic Center.

Bjelko tallied 17 points, and Fortuny had 13.

The Particulars
Bryant (1-6,0-0) Holy Cross, (3-3, 0-0)
Location: Chace Athletic Center (Smithfield, R.I.)

 Key Moment

• The Crusaders outscored the Black and Gold 22-9 in the third quarter.

 How it Happened

• The Bulldogs dominated the first quarter defensively, holding Holy Cross to six points. Offensively Bryant scored 12 points. Fortuny led the way with five points. Megan Bodziony had four, and Alana Perkins tallied three (12-6).
• The second quarter was a back-and-forth affair as there were six lead changes. The Crusaders began the first four minutes of the period on a 7-0 run to gain a 15-12 lead. Bryant responded with three points from Shannon O'Connor and Fortuny to earn a 16-15 lead before the media timeout.
• In the remaining six minutes, both teams posted 10 points, resulting in a 26-25 halftime lead for the Bulldogs. Bjelko took charge in the final six minutes of the first half posting six points. Fortuny had three, and Juliette Golden recorded one during the stretch.
• Holy Cross took control of the game in the third quarter outscoring Bryant 22-9. This resulted in a 47-35 advantage for the Crusaders.
• During the final period of the contest, the Black and Gold recorded 14 points. Bjelko carried the load for Bryant scoring nine points. Holy Cross tallied 20 of their own to earn a 67-49 victory.

 Stats

• Bjelko recorded 17 points and eight boards.
• Fortuny scored 13 points to go along with seven rebounds.

 Notes

• Bjelko reached double figures for the fifth time this season.
• Fortuny now has at least 13 points in two straight games.
• Perkins and Nicole Gallagher have hit at least one three-pointer in every game this year.

Next Up

The Bulldogs will head back on the road to face Albany on Wednesday for a seven o'clock tip-off.