CRESSON, Pa. — Mount Aloysius stayed within striking distance throughout Wednesday night, but La Roche pulled away late to secure a 78-69 decision in Allegheny Mountain Collegiate Conference action at the Athletic Convocation & Wellness Center.

The Mounties battled from the opening tip and trailed by just five at halftime before continuing to pressure the visitors in a second half that featured multiple lead changes and six ties. Mount Aloysius cut the deficit to two possessions midway through the period, but timely shooting down the stretch allowed La Roche to maintain control.

Senique Jenkins (Columbus, Ohio, Imani Christian) led Mount Aloysius with 19 points and nine rebounds, providing a strong inside presence while playing nearly the entire contest. Troy Tinch (Baltimore, Md., Calvert Hall) recorded a double-double with 15 points and 11 rebounds, while Donovan Bass-Briscoe (Alexandria, Va., Hayfield) added 13 points, four assists and two steals in an all-around effort.

Jordon Nelson (Charlotte, N.C., Hickory Grove) chipped in nine points, converting six of seven attempts at the free-throw line, as the Mounties finished 18-of-24 from the stripe. Mount Aloysius also held an advantage on the glass, outrebounding La Roche 32-29 and scoring 30 points in the paint.

The Mounties shot 45.3 percent from the field and limited La Roche opportunities inside, keeping the contest competitive until the final minutes. Despite going scoreless from beyond the arc in the second half, Mount Aloysius continued to attack the rim and force trips to the free-throw line.

Mount Aloysius (1-13, 0-6 AMCC) returns to action Saturday with a road conference matchup at Alfred State. Tip-off against the Pioneers is scheduled for 3 p.m.