Jacksonville, Ill. - The Red Hawks dropped their fifth consecutive game Friday night, losing 62-40 at Illinois College. Ripon made just six shots in the first half, while shooting 23 percent (6-23) from the field in the first period, and 27 percent (8-26) for the game.

As lopsided as the Lady Blue's victory was, the Red Hawks (7-12, 3-9) were in contention for a while in the first period. That is, until nothing would drop through the basket. Ripon took a one point lead with five and a half minutes remaining in the half on a jumper by Cassy Gerrard. Illinois College (6-13, 4-8) would then take the lead back a few possessions later, and would never trail the rest of the game. The Lady Blues took command of the game thanks to a 12-1 run to end the half, giving them a 10-point advantage at the half.

The beginning of the second half started out even worse than the end of the first. Ripon missed their first eight shots of the second period, allowing Illinois College to score the first 14 points of the half and giving the Lady Blues a commanding 24-point lead. The score would stay in that range for the most of the game. IC capitalized on turnovers, turning them into 27 points. The Lady Blues bench also dominated, outscoring Ripon's reserves 33-8.

Ripon was led by JoEllen Buerger's 11 points, which was the only Red Hawk in double figures in the scoring column. Jessica DeHamer added nine points and nine rebounds, while Trisha Jones chipped in with eight points and four boards.

Illinois College had a more balanced attack, while also only seeing one player in double figures scoring, as Ashley Law led the team with 11 points. Emma Reuschel added seven points off the bench, while Megan Richards, Lisa Imel, and Candace Norville each scored six points.

Ripon will try to right the ship Saturday afternoon at Knox College. Gametime is set for 2:00 p.m. and will be followed by the men's contest with the Prairie Fire.