Fourth quarter surge sinks Mustangs

SIOUX CITY, Iowa – It was a close battle for three quarters, but the Mustangs didn't have quite enough in the tank to pull off the upset, falling to No. 9 Briar Cliff 84-69 Wednesday night in Allee Gymnasium and the Rosen Verdoon Sports Center.

The Chargers beat out the Mustangs in the first two quarters, but it was just a five-point game at the half, with Briar Cliff ahead 41-36. The Mustangs continued to battle in the third quarter, making it a one possession game, 61-58. Alexis Spier and Ella Wragge combined for 15 points in the quarter to help keep the Mustangs within striking distance.

Briar Cliff took control of the final quarter of action as the Mustangs shot 3-of-12 from the floor in the quarter, compared to 9-of-18 for Briar Cliff.

Alexis Spier led the Mustangs with 16 points, eight rebounds, five assists, and four steals. Ella Wragge, Chloe Lofstrom, and Lauren Hedlund tallied 10 points apiece. Lofstrom added eight boards and Wragge seven. Hedlund was a perfect 3-for-3 from the floor and 4-for-4 at the free throw line. Jaeden Webb added nine points off the bench. The Mustangs outrebounded Briar Cliff 42-37.

Morningside is back in action Saturday at College of Saint Mary.