The Racers dropped their third straight game in a loss against a sharp-shooting SIU Edwardsville team Monday in Edwardsville, Ill.
Shooting for 66.7 percent in the field, the SIUE Cougars posed a significant threat to a Murray State team. It was the second meet against SIUE this season, with the first game resulting in a win.
Senior guard Tessa Elkins led the team with 17 points, scoring the first eight for Murray State in the first half to establish an early lead. Sophomore guard Keiona Kirby and freshman guard Erika Sisk followed close behind with 15 and 14 points, respectively.
Sisk led the team defensively, pulling down eight rebounds. Senior guard Mariah Robinson and junior forward Jessica Winfrey also contributed with six points each.
Shrinking the lead and regaining position in the first half, the Cougars didn’t have the time to completely chip away at the Racers, who finished the first half ahead 30-24.
The Cougars returned to the court with revived energy level at the start of the second half, almost tripling their field goal percentage due to a 12-2 run.
The stanza began 30 seconds into the half with a jumper by SIUE guard Tierny Austin.
Late in the second half, the Racers regained composure and cut the Cougars’ lead to five with almost five minutes left in the game.
To maintain the advantage and solidify the win, SIUE went on another 10-1 to ensure the win. The victory was a result of SIU Edwardsville guard Raven Berry aggression both offensively and defensively. She finished with 14 points and 11 boards to lead the Cougars in rebounding.
The Racers will return home Saturday to tip off against UT Martin at 2 p.m.