NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. (Interstat) — In a defensive struggle defined by frigid shooting, the Iona Gaels defeated the Saint Francis (PA) Red Flash 50-31 in a non-conference women’s basketball game Friday at the Hynes Center.

The contest, which saw both teams combine for a historically low offensive output, was controlled from the outset by the Gaels, who improved to 4-1 on the season. The loss extended Saint Francis’ difficult start, dropping the Red Flash to 0-7.

Iona never trailed, establishing an early lead and methodically extending it as Saint Francis’ offensive woes persisted throughout the night. The Gaels opened the game on an 11-0 run before the Red Flash registered their first points. While Iona’s own shooting was far from efficient, their defense created a margin that proved insurmountable for the struggling visitors.

The statistical story of the game was one of profound shooting struggles. Saint Francis shot a dismal 23.9 percent from the floor, converting just 11 of 46 attempts. Their troubles were compounded at the free-throw line, where they made only 5 of 13 attempts. The Red Flash also committed 20 turnovers, which Iona converted into 11 steals.

Iona’s offense, while the victor, was also anemic. The Gaels shot 32.8 percent from the field on 22-of-67 shooting and were only marginally better from beyond the arc, making 4 of 27 three-point attempts. Their saving grace was a significant advantage in ball security, committing just 11 turnovers while forcing the 20 from Saint Francis.

Zoey Ward was the standout performer for Iona, posting a double-double with 13 points and 13 rebounds in 37 minutes of action. Her presence on the glass was pivotal, as she grabbed multiple offensive rebounds to extend possessions for the Gaels.

Iona’s backcourt also made significant contributions. Mya Zaccagnini, despite scoring 9 points, was a catalyst with 3 assists and 3 steals, helping to fuel the defensive pressure. Isabellah Middleton filled the stat sheet with 7 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists, facilitating the Gael offense on a afternoon where easy baskets were scarce.

For Saint Francis, no player reached double figures in scoring. Bati Assefa led the team with 7 rebounds and added 5 points and a block, providing a defensive presence in the paint. Aleah James and Zaiha Minnis each contributed 7 points in the losing effort.

The game’s tempo was sluggish, with Saint Francis managing only 62 possessions and Iona 67. The resulting offensive ratings of 49.9 for the Red Flash and 74.2 for the Gaels underscored the defensive nature of the contest and the profound difficulties both teams had in scoring efficiently.

The victory gives Iona momentum heading into its next contest against Massachusetts-Lowell on Wednesday, Dec. 3. Saint Francis, still in search of its first win, faces a quick turnaround with a game at Illinois-Chicago on Saturday, Nov. 29.