North Newton, Kan. – The McPherson College women's basketball team started a win streak on Monday night, winning on the road at Bethel College 65-54.
The Bulldogs jumped out to a six point lead, 16-10 at the end of the first quarter, and looked like they might cruise to a relatively easy win. Then the 2nd quarter, which has been the Achilles heel of the Bulldogs this season, happened. The Threshers out-scored the Bulldogs 13-7, tying the game at 23 as the teams headed to the locker rooms.
Out of the break, the Bulldogs regrouped and had a big third period. They found their form on the offensive end of the floor again, winning the quarter 23-14, and leading the Threshers 46-35 heading into the final 10 minutes of play.
In the fourth quarter, the Threshers made a couple of runs at the Bulldogs, trimming the Bulldog lead to five on a couple of occasions, but each time the Bulldogs weathered the storm and had an answer. In the end they won the fourth quarter 19-17, extending their lead to 11 when the clock hit zeros.
Key Statistic
The Bulldog defense held the Threshers to just 26% shooting from the floor and from beyond the 3 point arc.
By the Numbers
The Bulldogs were 22 of 61 from the floor (36%), but were just 4 of 21 from deep (19%).
The Bulldogs struggled from the charity stripe, making 17 of 26 of their attempts (65%).
Just two Bulldogs scored in double figures, led by a 22 point performance by Brittany Roberts.
The Bulldogs lost the turnover battle 16-14, but dominated the glass, out-rebounding the Threshers 52-34.
Bulldog Leaders
Points: Brittany Roberts (22)
Rebounds: Brittany Roberts (17)
Assists: Dy'mond McElrath (5)
Steals: Kyrstin Branscum (2)
Blocks: Brittany Roberts (2)
Coaches Quote:
"Gutty effort tonight! I thought Victoria played a great game on both ends of the floor. We made enough free throws to get the win. Our defense is what won us the game." – Coach Nichols
Next Up
The win moves the Bulldogs back over .500 for the season at 12-11 overall, and in the KCAC at 9-8. They will be back on the hardwood on Thursday, hosting the Friends University Falcons in a 6:00 pm match-up at the Sport Center.
