The Windsor Lancers hit the hardwood Hamilton looking to establish their dominance in the west division facing a tough McMaster squad. The Lancers and Marauders spent almost the entirety of the last season neck and neck in the standings and Saturday's matchup represented an early marquee matchup in the OUA West.
 
Unfortunately for the Blue and Gold, McMaster was up to the task, weathering an early storm of three pointers to take down the Lancers, 74-66.
 
GAME STATS
The Lancers had a fantastic day from beyond the arc, making 37% of their looks. McMaster was held to 23% from outside.
 
Fifth year senior Carly Steer led the way for Windsor with 14 points, while Kayah Clarke contributed 12. Hilary Hanaka had a strong for McMaster, pacing their offense with 21 points.
 
Windsor's second unit had a good outing, scoring 28 bench points to McMaster's six.
 
GAME FLOW
Things started well for the Lancers as Steer and Clarke got into a rhythm from the three point line to give the Lancer offense an all-important early spark. A solid defensive effort from the visitors also played a key role in their first quarter lead. In the second quarter, McMaster kept pressure on in the paint, limiting the Lancer offense and keeping them in the game. Late in the half the stingy defense paid off as McMaster grabbed the lead shortly before halftime and took it into the break, 40-37.
 
Although the Lancers continued to see success from beyond the arc, the Marauders slowly built up their lead largely in part to a superb performance from Hanaka. Windsor made a late push in the fourth but fell 74-66.
 
UP NEXT
Up next the Lancers make their home debut at the St. Denis Centre on Friday, November 2, 2018 at 6:00pm. Tickets for the game can be purchased online at www.goLancers.ca/tickets.