Axewomen use defence to earn road win over Dalhousie

Acadia defeated Dalhousie 63–52 on Wednesday night at the Dalplex, using a strong defensive effort to secure the road win.

The Axewomen built a 17-point lead in the third quarter and finished with nine steals and six blocks. Dalhousie shot 23.9 per cent from the field and could not fully recover after falling behind, despite cutting the margin to single digits late.

Samantha Russell led Acadia with 20 points and eight rebounds, adding four steals. Bianca Helmig followed with 19 points and six rebounds. Sarah Delorey recorded a double-double with 14 rebounds and six points, along with three blocks. Maria Davignon added five points, two assists and a steal.

Cairo Henning paced Dalhousie with 18 points and 12 rebounds. Madelyn White scored 17 points and went 10-for-11 from the free-throw line. Samantha Manieri had eight rebounds and two steals, while Melina Collins finished with six points, two steals and two assists.

Acadia set the tone early, taking advantage of Dalhousie fouls to reach the free-throw line 11 times in the first quarter. Despite shooting 15 per cent from the field, Acadia stayed in control by winning the rebounding battle and forcing turnovers. Dalhousie shot 20 per cent in the opening frame, and Acadia led 13–9 after one.

The Axewomen extended the lead in the second quarter behind their defence, recording four steals and a block. Acadia added two three-pointers, including a basket from Amelie Bouchard at 5:25 that pushed the lead to 12. Dalhousie struggled at the line, going 1-for-5, as Acadia took a 28–22 lead into halftime.

Acadia took control in the third quarter, outscoring Dalhousie 22–15. The Axewomen hit four three-pointers, grabbed 14 rebounds and added three steals to stretch the lead to 50–37 heading into the fourth.

Dalhousie made a push in the final quarter, turning Acadia turnovers into eight points and trimming the deficit. Acadia responded with steady rebounding and inside scoring, collecting 11 rebounds and eight points in the paint to close out the game.

Acadia held on for the 63–52 victory.

The Axewomen continue their road trip Saturday in Charlottetown, where they face the UPEI Panthers at 6 p.m.