The Albert Lea girls’ basketball team dug an early hole against Rochester Century Monday in Rochester and couldn’t climb all the way out in a 52-44 loss to the Panthers in Rochester.

The Tigers (7-10, 5-6 Big Nine) rallied from a 15 point first half deficit to take a one-point lead during the second half but wasn’t able to hold back Century.

Albert Lea shot 28 percent from the field and committed 16 turnovers and lost for the fifth time in six games.

Abbey Arends hit three 3-pointers to finish with 15 points and was the only Tigers player in double figures.

Mallory Cochran led the Panthers (9-8, 7-4 Big Nine) with 13 points while Lizzie Stenhaug scored 12 and Mishawna Lindsey 10 points.

Albert Lea plays Mankato West Thursday in Mankato.

Century 52, Albert Lea 44

Albert Lea 22 22 — 44

Century 28 24 — 52

Albert Lea scoring: Abbey Arends 15, Alyssa Sager 9, Morgan Stadheim 8, Mikaela Pierson 6, Skyler Anderson 4, Taylor Friehl 2.

Century scoring: Mallory Cochran 13, Lizzie Stenhaug 12, Mishawna Lindsey 10, Taylor Wells 8, Maggie Pumper 4, Jessica Hazelton 3, Heather Tally 2.