NEW HAVEN, Conn. – The Purchase College men's basketball team ran into a difficult challenge Saturday afternoon, dropping a 92-65 decision to Albertus Magnus College in non-conference play.

With the outcome, the Panthers moved to 2-6 overall, while the Falcons improved to 5-3.

The Blue and Orange hung tough through the opening half, before the hosts gradually built momentum and carried a 40-25 lead into halftime.

After the break, the margin continued to grow despite Purchase's effort, as Albertus Magnus rolled to the start-to-finish win.

Offensively, the guests shot the ball fairly well, finishing at 42.6 percent from the field. But turnovers killed them, as the Falcons outpaced the Panthers, 27-11.

Individually, Desmond Ward (SR/Queens, NY) led the way with 16 points, nine rebounds and three assists.

Antuan Darden (JR/Bronx, NY) followed with 11 points, six boards and two blocks, while Sean Holzman (JR/Putnam Valley, NY) and Ricky Rollins (JR/Schenectady, NY) each chipped in seven points.

Up next for Purchase is the beginning of Skyline Conference play, as it welcomes Yeshiva University to campus on December 9th at 7 p.m.