The Clinton Lady Maroons could not overcome a slow start Monday night at Mt. Pulaski and a late comeback fell short in a 42-40 non-conference loss in high school girl's basketball action from Mt. Pulaski High School.

The Lady Maroons trailed 23-14 after the first half and 33-24 after three. A fourth-quarter rally was not enough for the Lady Maroons.

Both Mt. Pulaski and Clinton came into Monday's game with three losses on the season.

Lady Hilltoppers junior Alexis Wade scored a game-high 20 points.

Malorie Cyrluik led the Lady Maroons with 14 points. Kaitlyn Ruach added 12 points. Heidi Humble and Kylie Raymer each scored seven.

The Lady Maroons drop to 16-4 overall while the Lady Hilltoppers improve to 16-3.

The Lady Maroons open 2022 with four of its first five games on the road. Their lone home game is this Thursday night host Tri-Valley.