WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Shippensburg University women's basketball team was within two points of the lead with seven minutes to play on Tuesday night from our nation's capital but could gain the advantage down the stretch, dropping a 67-56 decision at the University of the District of Columbia.

Shippensburg (1-3) reduced a double-digit deficit with 9:07 left after a jumper by junior Lindsay Howard and answered a UDC three-pointer with a layup by Howard that brought SU within two points of the lead with 7:27 remaining. The Firebirds extended their lead on a three-pointer at the 6:28 mark and stymied the Lady Raider offense down the stretch to take control.

Senior Kasey Gardner led Shippensburg in scoring, totaling 16 points. She also contributed five rebounds, three assists and two steals in the contest. Sophomore Dana Wert was the other Lady Raider in double figures on Tuesday, scoring 10 points to go along with four assists and three steals.

Howard scored a career-high eight points along with freshman Brianna Forde. Both women provided 14 valuable minutes off the bench and combined to shoot 7-of-11 from the floor.

UDC (4-1), a squad with home wins this season over IUP (69-61) and Cheyney (74-40), held the Lady Raiders to just 2-of-11 shooting from three-point range and recorded a significant rebounding advantage. Lillian McGill, the impressive post player for the Firebirds, scored 17 points and grabbed 17 rebounds in the contest. Niqky Hughes added 15 points.

The Lady Raiders will return to the court in 15 days. SU hosts West Virginia Wesleyan on Wednesday, December 8 at 6 p.m. from Heiges Field House.