MOORHEAD, Minn. – Augustana made nine three-pointers to MSUM's one as the Vikings defeated the Dragons 64-40 in an NSIC cross-divisional match-up.
 
The Vikings took control of the scoreboard early in the first quarter, with senior Aislinn Duffy scoring six early points. While the Dragons would keep themselves within striking distance, MSUM shot just 38.9 percent from the field in the quarter to Augustana's 58.3 percent. However, a Mariah McKeever buzzer beating three pulled the Dragons to within two points as the quarter ended. Through one, the Vikings led 19-17. The junior's shot bounced high off the back rim and fell through the net as time expired. 
 
While MSUM continued to battle in the second quarter, Augustana's offense continued to take and make efficient shots. By the under five-minute media timeout, the Vikings had their biggest lead of nine points, holding a 29-20 advantage. MSUM was able to trim that lead to six points before halftime thanks to a tip-in by Peyton Boom with just under two seconds remaining in the half. Augustana led 32-26 at the break. McKeever and Boom had nine points each to lead the Dragons.
 
Augustana would quickly double their lead as the second half commenced, pushing their lead to 12 points. MSUM struggled to score in the quarter, beginning the frame just three of 10 from the field. The Dragons also could not connect on the long range shot, shooting just one of 14 from three-point range through three quarters. Compare that to eight made three-pointers from Augustana. The Vikings led 55-38 after three quarters. 
 
The Vikings would control the fourth quarter and come out with a 64-40 win. The Dragons shot just 29.3 percent from the field in the game including a one of 17 mark from three. 
 
Top Dragons

• Peyton Boom: 15 points, six rebounds
• Mariah McKeever: Nine points, six rebounds
• Natalie Jens: 12 points, five rebounds

 
Steve d'Eustachio's Stat of the Game
 
Despite today's loss, the Dragons are 11-11 against Augustana since the Vikings joined the NSIC in the 2008-09 season and are the only NSIC team not to have a losing record against Augie during this timeframe.
 
Up Next
 
The Dragons (7-6, 4-5 NSIC) will play again on Tuesday as they host Northern State at 5:30 p.m. inside Nemzek Fieldhouse. The game was originally scheduled for December 31, but was rescheduled as part of the NSIC's schedule reshuffling due to winter weather.