The Baruch College Bearcats lost 47-39 to the Valiants of Manhattan College on Thursday night in Purchase, New York.

The Valiants jumped out to a 13-2 lead and 28-10 advantage at halftime, but the visiting Bearcats outscored them in each of the third and fourth periods as part of a second half rally.

Daniela Arias nailed a pair of free throws at 5:18 of the fourth period to get as close as 43-37, but the Valiants ended the low-scoring contest by scoring four of the last six points for the win in the first meeting between the two teams since 2006.

Rookie Melinda Spahiu had a big game with a double-double of 15 points, 10 rebounds and three steals. Arias finished with an all-around effort of 14 points, six rebounds, four assists and four steals. Shannon Barrett had nine rebounds.

Nancy Caballero led the hosts from the MAC Conference with a double-double of 12 points and rebounds. 

The Bearcats will quickly resume action Friday night with their CUNYAC opener against York College with tip set for 5:30 p.m. at home in the ARC Arena.