PELLA—The defensive effort was there but the Central College women's basketball couldn't close the deal as the University of Dubuque used its dominance on the offensive glass to prevail 63-48 Saturday.
           
Dubuque (5-4 overall, 2-1 American Rivers) outrebounded the Dutch 59-36 and held a 22-10 advantage in offensive rebounds. The Spartans had 23 second-chance points.
           
"I thought we played awesome defense until the rebound," coach Moran Lonning said. "We've got to get that defensive rebound to finish it."
           
Central (3-6 overall, 0-2 conference) was also outshot from the field 36.1% to 28.1%. Guard Samantha Scott (sophomore, Davenport, North Scott HS) was the only Central player to reach double figures, scoring 13 points. Guard Kassidi Steel (junior, New Sharon, North Mahaska HS) had nine points.
           
"I think it's going to be rare for us to miss so many shots because I think we have really good shooters, but that will happen," Lonning said. "I liked the shots we were getting and we took care of the ball."
           
Despite an aggressive Dubuque zone press, the Dutch had only nine turnovers.
           
Center Allison Van Gorp (sophomore, Pella, Pella Christian HS) and guard Abby Johnson (sophomore, Ankeny) each had six rebounds while freshman point guard Jasmyn Williams (Denver, Colo., Arvada West HS) had four assists and a pair of steals.
           
"I am encouraged because the things that we need to work on are fixable," Lonning said.
           
Central continues league play next Saturday at Cedar Rapids with a women's-men's doubleheader at Coe College, with the women's contest starting at 2 p.m. Coe is 5-3 overall and 1-2 in the conference after knocking off Simpson College Saturday 91- 86 in double overtime.
           
After a flurry of games, the Dutch have a full week to prepare.
           
"I'm excited to compete and get after it in practice," Lonning said.