Box Score

MARSHALL, MINN. - Megan Stadler nailed a pair of go-ahead free throws with 18 seconds remaining to lift the Southwest Minnesota State women's basketball team to a 59-55 conference victory over 11th-ranked Minnesota State Moorhead Friday night in Marshall.  It was SMSU's second win over a nationally ranked opponent this season and MSUM's first loss of the season.

SMSU improves to 9-5 (1-3 NSIC) on the season; MSUM drops to 11-1(4-1 NSIC).

Stadler was part of a three-way offensive attack for the Mustangs as the junior compiled 11 points, a performance capped by her game-clinching shots from the line.

Part two and three came courtesy of Tori Fink and Sara Leidall, who were also in double digits with 11 and 10 points, respectively.

Abby Kenealy controlled the glass for SMSU, grabbing a team-high six boards. 

The Mustangs opened the game neck and neck with unbeaten and first-place NSIC squad.  SMSU put together a 9-0 run before heading to the locker room sporting a 10-point advantage.

That momentum carried over to after the break as the Mustangs appeared have control of the contest early in the second half, compiling a 15-point lead five minutes into the second half.  But the nationally ranked Dragons closed the deficit to 53-53 with two minutes remaining. 

Stadler then nailed the two go-ahead  free throws followed by another two to seal the victory.

MSUM's stellar 21-of-21 shooting from the free throw line set an R/A Facility record.

Meghan Rettke's 17 points and 10 rebounds led the Dragons.

SMSU is back in action tomorrow when it hosts Minnesota, Crookston for a 6 p.m. conference contest.