Tigers comeback to upset Panthers 61-57

Written by Joe Thomson

The Dalhousie women's basketball beat the University of Prince Edward Island 61-57 on November 26, at the Dalplex.

The Panthers opened up an early lead over the Tigers behind some strong play from the AUS's second leading scorer, Lauren Rainford (Toronto, ON). UPEI held a six-point lead at the end of the first quarter and kept the pressure on Dalhousie going into the second. UPEI's defense in particular gave Dalhousie problems as they held the Tigers to just 18 points entering halftime. It was a tale of defensive rebounds in the first half, with UPEI's defense outmuscling the Tigers 16 times compared to only 6 offensive rebounds for the Tigers.

Things began to turn around in the third quarter for Dalhousie as their offense finally began to come alive. Dal managed to start getting to hoop and finishing nicely inside which opened the floor up for their shooters to start hitting shots. At the opposite end, the Panthers shooting went cold. Ten of their 12 points in the third quarter came from Devon Lawlor (Millcove, PE).

Dalhousie continued their spirited comeback and managed to take their first lead of the game midway through the fourth quarter. Anna Parsons (Calgary, AB) was huge for the Tigers as her game-high 11 rebounds produced a handful of extra opportunities for her team. Late in the quarter, Dalhousie's Katie Wuotila (Calgary, AB) drilled three important 3-pointers to open up the Tigers lead. A tough layup from Abby Carpenter (Torbay, NL) sealed the game for Dalhousie as they walked away with a massive upset win; their first of the season.

Wuotila was named Subway player of the game for her stellar impact that fueled the Tigers comeback.

The win moves Dal to 1-7 on the season and drops the Panthers to 6-3.

Both teams will spend this week game planning for the nationally ranked Acadia Axewomen as Dalhousie hosts them Thursday, and UPEI Friday. Both games will be at 6:00 p.m.