Game Stats

Mankato, Minn. – Bethany Lutheran played strong team ball in a 74-65 win against Finlandia at home. The Vikings were able to keep a small lead over the Lions throughout the game, and scored 22 second chance point to give them an edge.

The Vikings had 30 offensive rebounds compared to the Lions eight. Bethany Lutheran crashed the boards and boxed out to give them 67-28 total rebound advantage. In a physical game two Finlandia players fouled out giving the Vikings 34 chances from the charity stripe, 25 of which went in. The Lions only shot nine free throws all game.

Bethany Lutheran also squashed Finlandia’s three-point threat after making four in the first half to allow only 1-9 in the second. The Viking allowed the Lions to shoot 40 percent from the field, but still managed the win while only recording 34.3 percent from the field.

Anna Cepek (Aurora, Neb./Aurora) had a stand out game posting a double-double with 24 points and 17 rebounds. Jessica Englund (Andover, Minn./St. Francis) had 17 points and eight rebounds. Nicole Jones (Mankato, Minn./Mankato East) had a strong game on the boards grabbing 16 rebounds. Jones also added eight points, and four assists.

Up next, Bethany Lutheran hosts rival Martin Luther in the conference opener. Game time is set for 5:30 p.m. Tuesday night.