BUFFALO, N.Y. (Interstat) — The Buffalo Bulls used a strong second quarter and clutch late free throws to secure their first victory of the season, defeating the Fordham Rams 67-59 in a non-conference women’s basketball game Sunday at Alumni Arena.

In a contest defined by defensive pressure and offensive struggles, the Bulls overcame 21 turnovers by capitalizing on their opportunities from beyond the arc and the free-throw line. Buffalo shot 8 for 20 from three-point range and 17 for 22 from the charity stripe, while Fordham managed just 3 of 23 from deep despite an 18-for-20 performance at the line.

Paula Lopez led all scorers with 19 points for Buffalo, including three three-pointers. Aniya Rowe provided a key all-around performance for the Bulls with 14 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Meg Lucas anchored the interior with a double-double, grabbing 14 rebounds to go with 10 points.

The game was a tale of contrasting quarters. Fordham started strong, taking a 16-11 lead after the first period. The Rams’ offense then went cold in the second quarter, mustering only seven points as Buffalo seized control with a 17-point frame to take a 28-23 lead into halftime.

Fordham mounted a comeback in the third quarter, exploding for 22 points to pull within four points, but could never overtake the Bulls. Buffalo answered with 20 points in the third and maintained its composure down the stretch, scoring 19 in the final period to close out the win.

Fordham’s offense was hampered by poor shooting, finishing 19 for 65 from the field for a 29.2 percent clip. The Rams were led by a trio of players who each scored 13 points: Ornella Niankan, Alexis Black and Emma Wilson-Saltos. Wilson-Saltos also pulled down eight rebounds, while Black contributed four assists, three rebounds, two blocks and a game-high four steals.

Defense was a hallmark for both teams. Fordham recorded 13 steals and five blocks, forcing Buffalo into its 21 turnovers. The Bulls, however, won the battle on the glass with 15 offensive rebounds leading to second-chance opportunities, and their defense held firm when it mattered most.

With the win, Buffalo improves its record to 1-3. Fordham, which had its two-game winning streak snapped, falls to 3-2. An announced crowd of 883 was in attendance.

Fordham next travels to face Seton Hall on Thursday. Buffalo will head to Saint Bonaventure for its next contest on Wednesday.