New Rochelle, NY - The Iona College women's basketball team (15-10, 10-4 MAAC) has increased its home winning streak to eight games, with a win over Niagara (13-12, 5-9 MAAC) this afternoon. The Gaels took another close victory, 69-67, on the shoulders of seasoned veterans. Tiara Headen led the squad with 17 points and five rebounds, while Anna McLean added 15 points and five boards.

Senior guard Shaunna Ambrose opened up the scoring with a three point play 20 seconds into the contest. Niagara would maintain the lead throughout most of the first half. Thazina Cook knocked down a three pointer to tie the game at 21 with 6:26 on the clock, but the Purple Eagles pulled back in front on an Erika Harris free throw.

With 38 seconds remaining in the half, the Gaels took their first lead on a layup by McLean. They would carry a 25-24 edge into the second period.

Niagara would grab the lead one more time, at the 17:46 mark, with a layup by Michelle Manfredi. Regan Pettijohn hit a jumper eight seconds later to put the Gaels up for good.

Pettijohn netted two free throws at 4:23 , giving Iona its largest lead of the day at 59-47. The Maroon & Gold were outscored 20-10 down the stretch but held on for the victory.

Iona's 15 overall and ten MAAC wins this season are the team's second most as a Division I program. With the win over Niagara, the Gaels have clinched a bye in the first round of this year's conference tournament.

Iona heads to the site of the 2007 MAAC Championships, facing Fairfield at the Arena at Harbor Yard on Feb. 17.