Morningside falls at No. 1 Dordt

SIOUX CENTER, Iowa – The Mustangs gave No. 1 Dordt a run for their money early on, but the power of the Defenders allowed them to pull away with the 93-72 win Wednesday night in Sioux Center.

The Mustangs played well out the gate, leading for most of the first quarter. A late run to end the first and start the second gave Dordt the lead for good. The Defenders outscored Morningside 21-13 despite Morningside shooting 46% in the second quarter compared to 40% for the Defenders.

Morningside battled the Defenders for the third quarter, but the Defenders couldn't miss, hitting over 75% of their shots. Ultimately, Morningside wasn't able to trim the lead and the Defenders earned the win.

Alexis Spier led the Mustangs with 18 points and four rebounds. Jordyn Carr scored eight points in the first quarter and ended the game with 15 points. Chaise Pfanstiel contributed with 13 points on 6-of-9 shooting off the bench. Sam Ehlers led Morningside with six rebounds.

The Mustangs shot above their season average, hitting 45% of their shots from the field and 32% from beyond the arc. Dordt's offense continued to be efficient, hitting 51% of their shots. 

Morningside returns home Saturday for Senior Day against Hastings. The Mustangs and Broncos are set for a 2 p.m. tip-off. Morningside is tied with Northwestern for seventh in the conference at 9-8 in conference play. Hastings is ninth at 8-9 in conference play.