BOX SCORE KINGSTON, Ont. (January 5, 2013) - The Queens Gaels women's basketball team (4-5) fell short in their first match of the new year, losing to the Toronto Varsity Blues (5-4) 62-57. Despite trailing by as much as 17 during the game the Gaels were able to keep it close late, drawing to within three but the Blues held on.

Toronto held an early lead, with the Gaels staying close. First-year post Robyn Pearson (Toronto) and forward Gemma Bullard (Guelph, Ont.) were productive offensively for the Gaels contributing half of the team's first quarter points.

In the second quarter it was Toronto taking command, with guards Rachel Sider (New Westminster, B.C.) and Jasmine Lewen (Brampton, Ont.) netting 11 combined points. However, the Gaels were able to close out the half on a 7-2 run with second-year forward Jenny Wright (Kingston, Ont.) hitting a timely three-pointer and Pearson closing things out with a drive to the hoop. The Gaels trailed by 10 heading into the second half.

The third quarter followed suit with the first half, with the Varsity Blues continuing their 10 point lead. It wasn't until the fourth quarter that the Gaels really came to life. Bullard and veteran post Hanna Koposhynska (Missisauga, Ont) got things started for the Gaels, initiating a 9-4 Gaels run early in the quarter.  After pulling to within eight points, guard Liz Boag (Kingston, Ont.) made three from beyond the arc for the tricolour to pull the Gaels to within three. Unfortunately it was not enough, as Toronto guard Sider was sent to the line multiple times where she is efficient; solidifying Toronto's win.

Pearson earned the Domino's "Dominator of the Game" title, recording 10 points and seven rebounds.

The Queens Gaels women's basketball team hopes to earn their first victory of the new year Sunday, when they host the Ryerson Rams. Tip-off is set for 1 pm in the ARC Main Gym.