NEW YORK (Interstat) — Fordham used a dominant defensive performance and a commanding advantage on the glass to pull away from Saint Peter’s for a 70-56 victory in a non-conference women’s basketball game Monday night at Rose Hill Gym.

The Rams improved to 2-1 on the young season, while the Peacocks remained winless at 0-2.

A sluggish start from both teams saw Fordham cling to a 14-12 lead after the first quarter. The Rams began to create separation in the second period, outscoring Saint Peter’s 17-19 to take a 31-31 lead into halftime. The game remained tight through the third quarter, which ended with the teams tied at 50.

The fourth quarter, however, belonged entirely to Fordham. The Rams’ defense clamped down, holding Saint Peter’s to just six points in the final period while their offense erupted for 20. A 20-6 run over the final 10 minutes sealed the victory for the home team.

Fordham’s defense was the story of the game, forcing 19 Saint Peter’s turnovers and converting them into 22 points. The Rams also recorded 14 steals and blocked four shots. The rebounding disparity was stark, with Fordham hauling in 22 offensive rebounds compared to just five for the Peacocks, leading to numerous second-chance opportunities.

Alexis Black led the Fordham offense with a game-high 20 points, adding five assists. Ugne Sirtautaite was a force inside, just missing a double-double with 10 points and nine rebounds. Carryn Easley also chipped in 10 points for the Rams, who had a balanced scoring attack.

Saint Peter’s was led by a stellar performance from Carys Roy, who scored 19 points and grabbed five rebounds. De’Naya Rippey posted a double-double for the Peacocks, contributing 14 points and a game-high 13 rebounds.

Both teams struggled with efficiency. Saint Peter’s shot 35.4 percent from the floor and connected on just 5 of 20 attempts from three-point range. They were also hampered by poor free-throw shooting, making only 17 of 28 from the line. Fordham shot 36.5 percent from the field and 25.9 percent from beyond the arc, but their volume of opportunities created by offensive rebounds and forced turnovers proved decisive.

The announced attendance was 380 at the historic Rose Hill Gym. Fordham will look to build on the win when they host Stony Brook on Wednesday. Saint Peter’s will continue its search for its first victory on the road at Lafayette on Thursday.