By Molly Burnell, sports information assistant
January 10, 2005

BLUFFTON, Ohio - The Bluffton University women's basketball team (4-9, 1-1 HCAC) defeated Manchester College 59-56 on Jan. 10. 

Coming out of the gate strong, Bluffton led until the 13 minute mark of the first half when the score was tied eight all, but tough defense propelled the Beavers to a 32-31 half time lead. Key buckets in the second half helped Bluffton hold the lead until the 6 minute mark when Manchester went ahead 51-50.  Missed opportunities by the Spartans and clutch free throws by Tanya Rickenberg and Ashleigh Stallkamp kept Manchester at bay for the remainder of the game as the Beavers took the contest 59-56. Connecting on 23-of-57 buckets on the evening Bluffton shot 40 percent from the floor compared to Manchester's 34 percent (22-of-63).

Leading Bluffton was freshman Ashleigh Stallkamp (Paulding/Paulding).  Stallkmap posted 19 points, three rebounds and four assists.  Sophomore Tanya Rickenberg (Paulding/Paulding) rounded out double figure scoring for the Beavers with 15 points, while adding three rebounds and three assists.  A trio of Beavers Karin Schaller (Jenera/Arlington), Amanda Bell(Napoleon/Liberty Center) and Cara Young (Middletown/Madison) each pulled down a team-high five rebounds. 

Bluffton will be back in action on Jan. 12 as they host Franklin College. Tip off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. in Founders Hall.