Prince George, BC – A strong first quarter gave the University of Victoria Vikes a comfortable lead that they maintained throughout the game. The Vikes move to 9-5 after a 67-54 win over the UNBC Timberwolves, now 4-10.

Guard Shaylyn Crisp (Victoria, BC) and forward Jenna Bugiardini (Hamilton, ON) led the Vikes with 14 points each, Crisp was consistent throughout the game, stunting the Timberwolves comeback more than once. Sarah Semeniuk (Fruitvale, BC) was instrumental in the Vikes early lead, netting nine of her 10 points in the first quarter.

Fifth year guard Mercedes VanKoughnett (Prince George, BC) led scoring with 26 points. Shooting just under 60 percent from the field VanKoughnett was able to keep the game close and the pressure on the Vikes. Fellow fifth year Emily Kaehn (Hixon, BC) added 12 points to the Timberwolves' total.

A familiar situation left the Timberwolves trailing early on in the game. The Vikes were able to open early with Sarah Semeniuk down low; repeated lobs to Semeniuk inside were key to their early success. After the first quarter the Timberwolves trailed 22-8, a deficit they would not be able to over come.

After a slow start the Timberwolves appeared to find their rhythm. Mercedes VanKoughnett opened up with a three to start UNBC's scoring. A long two from Mavia Nijjer would bring the Timberwolves within seven before the Vikes opened up again. At half the Vikes led 37-25 over the Timberwolves.

Refusing to let go the Timberwolves continued to pressure the Vikes, challenging the inbounds forcing the Vikes to play full court. A bounce pass into the key to Emily Kaehn open on the low block cut the Vikes lead to single digits but Victoria's Crisp put an end to the UNBC run. Crisp nailed a second chance three followed by a long two after an unconverted UNBC possession to open the gap. The Vikes would have their biggest lead in the fourth quarter, widening the margin to 20 points before VanKoughnett would come back to knock down two consecutive long range jumpers. The Vikes were able to control the remainder of the game to maintain their lead and finish ahead of the Timberwolves 67-54.

The University of Victoria Vikes will return to Victoria to host the Mount Royal Cougars next weekend. Games are set for Friday January 25 and Saturday, January 25.

The UNBC Timberwolves take to the road next weekend for a double header against the UBC Thunderbirds. The Timberwolves are scheduled to play Friday, January 24 and Saturday, January 25. Catch the games live at canadawest.tv