ITHACA,NY-  The Alfred University men’s basketball team resumed Empire 8 play Friday evening, losing a 101-76 decision to Ithaca College on the road.

Junior forward Jason Ruback (Pittsford, NY/Pittsford-Mendon) and junior forward Michael Branche (Schenectady, NY/Colonie) jump-started the Saxons in the first half, scoring 14 points and 12 points each. AU trailed the Bombers 52-42 at the half.

Ithaca would not look back as they resumed play in the second half to finish the contest, outscoring Alfred 49-34. For the game, Alfred shot 42 percent from the field, 41 percent from the 3-point arc, and 56 percent from the free throw line.

Ruback finished the game with a game-high 26 points and team-high seven rebounds to pace the Saxons. Junior guard Thomas Tsatsis (Neponsit, NY/Townsend Harris) and Branche finished with 14 points apiece, respectively.

AU (2-8, 0-2 Empire 8) resume play against Utica College, Saturday, Jan. 5, at 4 p.m.