SAULT STE. MARIE, ON -
The Mustangs resumed their Ontario University Athletics (OUA) action Friday evening, January 10th as they took on the Algoma Thunderbirds.
Kailey Reimer knocked down a three to get the Mustangs up and running in the new year. Algoma matched the Mustangs in the first quarter, leading by as much as four points throughout. Western's scoring came mainly in the paint and were led by Annie Balfe with 6 points and 3 rebounds as the Mustangs regained the lead 24-21 after the first quarter.
Algoma's three point shooting kept them in the game as the Mustangs defense looked shaky throughout the first half. The Thunderbirds went 6 of 11 from beyond the arc at the half. Western continued to fight, looking for consistency in their defense and rhythm in their offense. Sarah Harvey went to work under the rim, heading into the half with 9 points and 3 rebounds.
The Mustangs full court press worked well in the second quarter, forcing the Thunderbirds to turn the ball over 14 times at the half. They fought back and rebuilt their three-point lead at the half, 39-36.
Algoma's three point shooting continued to keep them in the contest. The Mustangs offense got contributions from Paris Alexander, Jenna Button, Payton Baker and Annie Balfe who extended the lead to nine points heading into the fourth quarter, 57-48.
Algoma's offense withered in the second half and Western's defense found their consistency, holding the Thunderbirds to 19 points. The Mustangs offense got going and extended their lead to as much as 22 points. Alexander and Button took charge for the Mustangs, scoring 16 and 15 points respectively.
Western extended their win streak to 7 games, welcoming the new year with a 72-55 victory. They are back in action on Saturday, January 11th at 2pm EST wrapping up a back-to-back against the Thunderbirds. Tune in live on OUA.tv.
KEY STATS
G | Paris Alexander - 16 PTS (3-7 3PT), 4 REBS, 2 ASTS
G | Jenna Button - 15 PTS (3-7 3PT), 9 REBS, 6 ASTS
F | Sarah Harvey - 13 PTS (5-15 FG), 9 REBS
F | Annie Balfe - 8 PTS (4-6 FG), 9 REBS