LACROSSE, Wis. - The Red Hawks seemed outmatched from the outset Saturday night, as they never held the lead, losing at UW-LaCrosse 78-62 Saturday night. Ripon shot just 14 percent from the three-point line in the first half, compared to LaCrosse's 46 percent from beyond the arc in the first period. The two teams turned the ball over equally (21 times), but LaCrosse used their 52 percent shooting in the second half to take home the victory.

UW-LaCrosse (3-1) led from the outset. After building a 7-4 lead, LaCrosse went on a 16-4 run to bust the game wide open. The Red Hawks (1-3) tried to battle back, as they cut the lead to eight poinnts with just over three minutes remaining. LaCrosse would then go on a 9-0 run to end the half and take a 17 point lead into the locker room.

UW-LaCrosse would lead by as many as 24 points in the second half. The Red Hawks made another mini-run to pull within 13 points late in the run, but it was too little, too late, as LaCrosse's huge lead was just too much to overcome.

Ripon's scoring attack was led by Bo Johnson's 18 points off the bench, to go along with his six rebounds. Brian Schmitting added 11 points and four boards, while Chris Kellett added eight points and five steals in his first start of the season. Paul Wise also finished with eight points. David McMullen was outstanding on the defensive end of the floor, recording six steals.

UW-LaCrosse had four players score in double figures. Joe Werner led the charge with his 20th career double-double. Werner led LaCrosse with 18 points and 10 rebounds. Chris Fehrenbach recorded 17 points and four assists, while Chris Ask scored 14 points, while notching five assists. TJ Nereng finished with 11 points off the bench for LaCrosse.

The Red Hawks will try to get back on the winning track on Friday, as they'll open their conference season with a game against Knox College at Storzer Center. Tipoff is set for 7:00 p.m. and will be preceded by the women's contest.