Ravens Late Push Overpowers Mustangs

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa - The Mount Mercy women's basketball team fell in a conference matchup against the Benedictine Ravens, 63-60, at Hennessey Recreation Center on Saturday afternoon.

Despite a slow start in the first quarter, the Mustangs took a 32-29 lead at halftime. The second half proved to be a battle until the end, as the Mustangs held a narrow 47-46 lead at the end of the third quarter but ultimately fell short in the fourth.

While the Mustangs shot slightly better than the Ravens, finishing at 40.4% (23-for-57) from the field, Benedictine capitalized on efficient free-throw shooting. The Ravens sank 11-of-14 (78.6%) attempts at the line, while the Mustangs converted 8-of-11 (72.7%).

The Mustangs' offense was led by Malie Marfil, who scored a team-high 19 points on 8-for-12 shooting from the field. Annika Headington followed with 13 points, including a 6-for-7 performance from the free-throw line, while Claudia Vanzant added 12 points on 6-for-11 shooting. Madison Skelton also contributed 11 points.

The Ravens were led by Josie Weishaar and Riley Wade, each scoring 11 points. Lauryn Dubbert contributed 10 points and four rebounds for Benedictine.

The Mustangs will look to bounce back on February 5 as they host Graceland. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m.