|
The Lady Jackets went wire-to-wire with the lead, keeping the Beavers at bay with solid perimeter defense. Although Bluffton was able to tie the game at 30 two minutes into the second half, DC responded with a 7-0 run to regain the momentum.
Bluffton put a scare into the Jackets with a comeback attempt at the end of the game, capped off by three free throws with 42 seconds to play to make it a 53-49 game. DC was able to stave off the Beavers with clutch free throws by Sarah Bird.
Defensively, the Lady Jackets had one of their best efforts of the season. The team held Bluffton to only 24.9% field goal shooting, the lowest total by a DC opponent this year.
DC also forced 18 turnovers in the game, which has been an integral part of the Jacket defense over the past few games. In the last five contests, Defiance opponents have averaged 20.8 giveaways per game.
The Lady Jackets were able to use these turnovers to their advantage, scoring 15 points off of those takeaways.
Kayla Mengerink had an impressive all-around effort, finishing with five points, eight rebounds, and a season-high nine assists. Mandy White picked up her fifth double-double of the season with 13 points and 10 boards.
Sarah Bird led DC in scoring with 19 off the bench. Sarah Grime added six points and seven boards.
Defiance (12-9, 5-7 HCAC) looks to keep its winning streak alive on Saturday when the team goes back on the road to take on Mount St. Joseph at 3:00 p.m.
|
