Hitting the tough shots down the stretch Oklahoma Christian University nailed a 72-64 loss on the University of Science and Arts of Oklahoma in women's action here Feb. 26.

Protecting a lead throughout the second half with 59 percent shooting the Lady Eagles redeemed a one-point early season loss to the Drovers. The victory improves OC's record to 16-13 on the season and improves their playoff position with a 6-10 conference mark. USAO is now 15-11 overall and 8-9 in league play.

After leading by one at the half, OC built a comfortable 55-45 lead midway of the final period when Becky gray hit a three-pointer. The Drovers rebounded by mounting a rally that cut the Lady Eagles lead to a single point, 61-60 with 1:38 to play.

Freshman Katie Fariss took things in hand for the Lady Eagles by sinking a three pointer at 1:08. She followed by a pair of free throws for a 66-60 lead as USAO fouled with time running down. Senior Eden Wiens converted two more free throws and Fariss finished it off, going four for four at the line in the final 20 seconds.

Offensively OC was led by sophomore Lauren Decker with 18 points and Fariss and Tasha Turney each finished with 16. Decker and Fariss were eight for eight at the foul line as the Lady Eagles were 23 of 26 at the foul line.

Hampered by 18 turnovers, OC nonetheless out rebounded the visitors 37 to 30 as Jennifer Haynes had the game high eight rebounds.

OC will travel to Shawnee for a Feb. 28 match up with St. Gregory's University.