CAPERS Can't Overcome Slow Start

FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB Reds started strong and held a double-digit lead for most of the game, winning 64-56 over the Cape Breton Capers, on Saturday evening.

Grace Simpson (Fredericton, NB) had 12 points and seven rebounds and earned Subway Player of the Game honours.

The Reds jumped ahead of the Capers in the standings, improving to 4-and-5 while CBU dropped to 3-and-6.

"We played similar, like we did tonight, against them when we were down there [in Cape Breton] and had a similar half-time score and we lost," said Simpson. "We came back today in the second half and kept the lead, kept playing, so that was a good win for us."

The Reds started hot, leading the game off with a 13-2 run and a substantial 26-8 lead after the first quarter.

The play was more even in the second quarter, with both teams putting up 12 points, but the Capers were unable to make up ground as the Reds maintained their 18-point lead at the half 38-20.

UNB would continue to keep the Capers at a safe distance with another identical, responsible quarter in the third to head into the fourth up 52-32.

The Reds would hold off a surge from the Capers late in the fourth quarter, holding on for a 64-56 victory.

"We have really been preaching playing 40 minutes," said Simpson. "When teams go on runs we need to make sure we keep our energy and keep playing."

Mikaela Dodig (Bolton, ON) led the Reds with 17 points and 10 rebounds while Audrey Rankin (Prince George's County, Maryland) led the Capers with 16 points and five rebounds.

The two teams will meet again Sunday afternoon at UNB's Currie Centre, game time is 2:00 pm.

RECAP BY: Jonathon James/for UNB Athletics

PHOTOS BY: James West/for UNB Athletics