Saturday afternoon at the W.F. Mitchell Centre, the Guelph Gryphons women's basketball team put together a strong defensive game to hold off a tough McMaster team 56-51. With the win, the Gryphons advance to 9-11 on the season, while the Marauders fall to 5-14.

Leading the balanced Gryphon attack was freshman Kayla Goodhoofd, with a career high 12 points. Samantha Russell added 10 points to go with her game high 15 rebounds. Ali Dzikowski chipped in eight.

McMaster was led by Taylor Chiarot's double-double of 17 points and 10 rebounds. Elizabeth Burns added 13 in a losing effort.

On Shoot for the Cure day, both teams put on a great defensive game. Guelph was able to force McMaster into 16 turnovers, while keeping leading scorer Jaklynn Nimec in check.

The Gryphon's opened up the game with a 17-12 first quarter. Kara Muhlhuasen got the Gryphon's off to a hot start, netting six in the opening frame.

The second quarter saw the Gryphons utilize good ball movement to take a 28-22 lead into half. Muhlhausen and Russell had seven by half, while Dzikowski and Goodhoofd each had six.

The Gryphons turned up the defensive pressure in the third, forcing eight McMaster turnovers by getting into the passing lanes and disrupting the Marauders offense. The Gryphons usually strong shooting from three was nonexistent throughout the game, as they shot only 2-16 for the game.

The fourth quarter saw an impressive comeback attempt at the hands of the Marauders, with Chiarot leading the way. The Gryphons were able to seal the victory at the foul line, with Russell knocking the Marauders down for the count.

Your Gryphons will hope to take their winning ways on the road when they travel to Brock this Wednesday February 16. Tipoff is scheduled for 6pm.