HENNIKER, N.H. - The Norwich University women's basketball team nearly completed a fiery comeback in the second half but fell short of victory, dropping a 63-50 tilt at New England College in a Great Northeast Athletic Conference (GNAC) clash on Wednesday evening at Bridges Gym.

The Cadets had a pair of double-digit performers, led by Maren McGinn's (Georgia, Vt.) 16-point output on a 7-13 clip from the floor.  Haley Brewster (Virginia Beach, Va.) just barely trailed, tallying 14 points.

After Norwich rushed out to a quick 4-0 lead on back-to-back layups from McGinn, the Pilgrims rolled, controlling the rest of the quarter en route to a 12-point lead, spurred by a 15-4 run to close the frame.

New England College kept the momentum afloat in the second, keeping the lead at double-digits, a theme that would follow after the intermission.  However, the Cadets finally found an opportunity in the third stanza, bringing NEC's 11-point lead down to five on a pair of occasions.

Brewster gave Norwich the best chance to break through, snagging a steal and converting on a fastbreak opportunity to whittle New England College's edge down to three.  That would be as close as the Cadets would get, however.  The visitors remained within striking distance, but the Pilgrims held firm throughout the closing minutes.

The Cadets held advantages in a few categories, maintaining narrow leads in points off turnovers (19-17) and second-chance points (12-8), as well as in fast break points (4-2).

Norwich returns home to close out the week, celebrating Senior Day with a 3:00 p.m. tip against Lasell University on Saturday, Feb. 10.  Prior to gametime, the team will honor seniors Silas Bernier (Jaffrey, N.H.) and Rachel Botala (Grand Isle, Vt.), as well as team photographer Jasmine Olson.