ATHENS, Ga. (Interstat) — The Alabama women’s basketball team used a decisive second-quarter surge to defeat Georgia 68-53 on Thursday night at Stegeman Coliseum.

Trailing by eight after the first quarter, the Crimson Tide outscored the Bulldogs 19-8 in the second period to take a halftime lead and never relinquished control. Alabama’s defense stifled Georgia, which shot just 33.3% from the field and 20% from 3-point range.

Essence Cody led Alabama with 16 points. Karly Weathers added 11 points and five assists. Mia Woolfolk scored 13 points for Georgia.

The victory improved Alabama to 19-3 overall. Georgia fell to 18-4. An announced crowd of 2,281 attended the Southeastern Conference game.