Box Score MORRIS, Minn. – The Minnesota Morris Cougars were unable to overcome the Valley City State Vikings on Friday night losing 70-57. The Vikings outscored UMM 40-22 in the paint on the night. Emily Auch nearly had a double-double pouring in 12 points and grabbing eight rebounds.
 
Valley City State jumped out to an early 16-7 lead thanks to creating some early turnovers. A quick five point burst cut the lead to four with nine minutes left in the first half.  The Vikings responded with a 6-0 run of their own to extend their lead to ten at 22-12. Valley City maintained control the rest of the half and took a 32-21 lead into the break. In the first half the Vikings outshot UMM 43.3%-21.9% in the first half, gaining the lead. The Vikings also held an 18-4 advantage in points in the paint and a 9-3 advantage in bench points.
 
As the second half started the Vikings were able to extend their lead and continued to score points in the paint. Ten of their first 16 points in the second half were scored inside the paint. The Cougars cut the lead to nine with 9:53 left thanks to an 8-0 run but could not get no closer as the Vikings pulled away late.
 
Minnesota Morris and Valley City State will play again January 4 at Valley City in the team's first action of 2014.