After racing out to a 28-point first half lead, the Valley City State women's basketball team withstood a fourth quarter rally to defeat Mayville State 77-72 Friday night.  

After trailing 9-4 early in the first quarter the Vikings picked up the tempo forcing the Comets into multiple turnovers. Over a seven-minute stretch the Vikings went on a 24-0 run, giving them a 28-11 lead after the first quarter. The Vikings continued their hot shooting and solid defense take a 44-16 midway through the second quarter. VCSU to a 48-32 lead into the locker-room. 

The Comets came out revitalized in the second half and were able to cut the Viking lead to three late in the fourth quarter.  Solid defensive possessions, a pair of free throws from Georgia Williams, and one more free throw from Hannah Schlecht sealed it for the Vikings. 

The Vikings were lead in scoring by Georgia Williams with 23. Three other Vikings were in double figures. Kennedy Henningsgard added 16 points, 11 of which came in the first quarter.  Alli Vandal dropped in 13 along with 11 rebounds for a double-double, and Nisja Bass scored 10. 

Mayville State was led in scoring by Andrea Skillingstad with 25 and Andi Gayner with 18. 

The Viking defense forced 28 Comet turnovers while only committing 13 of their own. With the win the Vikings improve to 16-7 overall and 7-3 NSAA. With the loss Mayville falls to 11-9 overall and 6-5 NSAA. VCSU hosts Waldorf University tomorrow at 3:00 p.m.  Mayville State travels to Dickinson State.