OWENSVILLE — The Blanchester girls basketball team was defeated by Clermont Northeastern Thursday night 55-48 in SBAAC National Division play.

Blanchester led 12-11 after one quarter then extended the advantage to 27-17 by halftime.

But the Rockets rallied in the third period as Blanchester’s offense went cold. CNE held a 36-35 lead after three.

“We just need to be more consistent asnd learn how to play with a lead,” BHS coach Pete Jackson said, who noted the team had too many unforced turnovers in the second half to win the game.

Tori Potts led Blanchester with 13 points, nine rebounds and eight steals, Jackson said.

Ainsley Whitaker had a solid performance, 10 points and eight rebounds. Olivia Potts scored seven points while Emma Winemiller and Daelyn Staehling had six points each. Kaylee Coyle finished with three points and Maddie Tipton had two.

Reagan Beverly had 19 points for Clermont Northeastern.