Vikings fall to perfect Rustlers

CAMROSE, AB - In their final home game of the regular season, the Augustana Vikings drop a competitive game to the league-leading Lakeland College Rustlers, 87-69, Friday night at Augustana Gym.

With the win, the Rustlers keep their perfect season intact with just one game remaining on their regular-season schedule, improving to a 15 game win streak. Their record not only helps them claim the top spot in the north division, but they also lead the entire league with 30 points.

Across the court, the Viking's New Year struggles continue as their record slips to 4-6 since returning from the winter holiday break in January after starting the season 4-1. However, they are still holding onto third place in the north with one game remaining.

Leading the night for the Rustlers was Bilge Topaloglu with 24 points, five rebounds, and four assists. Meanwhile, Vikings veteran Lauren Cardinal had 20 points, three rebounds, and two assists for her side.

Starting the night off strong, the Vikings went basket for basket with their visitors, trailing by just a single jump shot at the end of the first, 21-19. The Rustlers were able to gain a slight edge over their host to head into halftime with a nine-point lead, 39-30.

Continuing to chip away at a larger lead, the Rustlers built up an 18 point lead to end the third frame and all but sealing the deal.

Looking to survive and gain a valuable two points with a win, the Vikings fought back to tie the fourth-quarter score at 20 points apache, but it would be too little too late as the Rustlers take the win, 87-69.

Looking ahead, both teams take to the court tomorrow night at 6:00 pm at Lakeland College to close out the regular season. Catch all the action on ACACtv.