Box Score COSTA MESA, Calif. – The 10th-ranked Westminster women's basketball team couldn't overcome a slow start at No. 5 Vanguard on Saturday night and dropped a 60-43 decision. Westminster never found a rhythm and shot just 19.6% from the field in the contest. The loss drops the Griffins to 1-1 on the season with Vanguard moving to 1-0.

After scoring the first basket of the game, Westminster then watched Vanguard go on a 13-1 run to open up a 10 point lead. The lead would reach 18 just 30 seconds into the second half before a 14-5 push by the Griffins to get within nine at the 9:20 mark. Vanguard responded with a 16-5 run to seal the game.

The Griffins finished just 9 of 46 from the floor and were 2 of 17 from 3-point range. Westminster turned it over 27 times, giving them two straight with more than 25 turnovers. They were solid defensively holding Vanguard to 35.1% shooting and forcing 22 turnovers. Vanguard shot just 23.3% in the second half and was 0 of 11 from beyond the arc.

Michelle Pace led Westminster with 12 points and seven rebounds. Allie Eastman and Jenteal Jackson finished with seven point apiece. Dani Evans collected seven rebounds and three assists.

Sarah Boyd led Vanguard with 14 points, making 8 of 9 from the foul line. Angelica Sahagun added 13 points and 10 rebounds.

Westminster will complete this season opening road trip with a game at La Sierra College on Monday, November 1.