LISLE, Ill. - The Benedictine University women's basketball team rallied from down 14 points in the second half, clawing within four points before eventually falling to Wisconsin Lutheran 70-62 on Thursday night.

Wisconsin Lutheran forced several turnovers early, building a double-digit lead less than six minutes into the contest. A jumper from Vincenza Ranallo allowed the Eagles to pull within 27-23 with 6:38 remaining in the half but Wisconsin Lutheran led by 10 at 40-30 at the break.

The visitors held a 60-46 advantage with 7:24 left in the game before Benedictine came swarming back, putting a stiff test into the unblemished conference leaders. Jillian Lipman opened a 13-3 run with a jumper. Alanna Ferry brought Benedictine within 63-59 with a layup at the 2:29 mark but Wisconsin Lutheran used free throws and clutch rebounding to hold off the late challenge.

Benedictine held a 41-33 advantage on the glass against a bigger team, including 19 offensive rebounds which led to 19 second chance points. Michelle Gaede led the Eagles with 13 points. Ferry added 11 with Ranallo notching 10.

Benedictine (9-10, 7-4 NAC) will have a short turnaround as Alverno visits on Saturday night at 7:30 p.m.