BALTIMORE (Interstat) — Holy Cross built a commanding early lead and never looked back, defeating Loyola Maryland 66-48 in a Patriot League women’s basketball game Saturday at Reitz Arena.

The Crusaders opened with a 23-point first quarter and led 42-30 at halftime. Mary-Elizabeth Donnelly scored 21 points to lead Holy Cross, while Kendall Eddy added 18 and Meg Cahalan scored 14. The Crusaders shot 48.9% from the field and made nine 3-pointers.

Kimmie Hicks led the Greyhounds with 16 points and Lex Therien scored 12. Loyola Maryland struggled offensively, shooting 30% overall and making just 3 of 19 from beyond the arc.

Holy Cross improved to 19-9 overall. Loyola Maryland fell to 12-16.