Defense continues to plague the Lady Lancers.

Neshannock allowed over 70 points for the second time in five games as Rochester pulled away for a nonsection win. The Lady Lancers (0-5) are allowing 64 points a game.

“The defensive end is what we’re struggling with,” Neshannock coach Luann Grybowski said. “They played hard, it’s just young mistakes. I just have to be patient.

“We’ve really stressed defense since (last Thursday’s) New Brighton game. There were just some key breakdowns, like not boxing out and not denying the cutter.”

The Lady Lancers were within four points with just over two minutes to play but couldn’t get any closer.

Neshannock, which boasts nine freshman on the roster, surpassed the 50-point mark for the third this season. The Lady Lancers were up 22-19 after one quarter.

Neshannock committed a season-low 15 turnovers.

“We ran our offense the way it was supposed to be run in the first quarter,” Grybowski said. “That’s a plus (for our turnovers). But we had some turnovers when it got to be close late in the game.

“When you score 58 points, you’re not supposed to lose. I do see us making baby steps though.”

Madison McHale led Neshannock with a game-high 23 points and Marissa DeMatteo was next with 18 markers and four assists. Tayler Grybowski, the coach’s daughter, contributed five rebounds, three steals and three blocks.

The Lady Lancers were 16 of 54 from the field.

Miranda Robson tossed in 20 points for the Lady Rams (2-3).

Neshannock was 16 of 54 from the field.