HIBBING, Minn. -- Gogebic Community College's Lady Samsons used a strong second half to overcome Hibbing CC Saturday.

After falling behind 25-21 early in the second half, Janey Routheaux and Leslie Haapoja ignited the Lady Samsons with some super perimeter defense, deft ball handling and solid decision-making on the offensive end, according to GCC coach Dennis Mackey.

"Nichole Mazurek, Kristen Ruppe and Nicole Rosga sealed off the inside on the defensive end, grabbed the rebounds and ran the floor well," he said.

GCC forced numerous Hibbing turnovers and limited the Cardinals to one shot, scoringseveral fast-break baskets. The result was a 26-2 run that put GCC in control midway through the second half.

"Our athleticism and team speed took over in the second half," said Mackey. "We played very well defensively. We just missed too many shots. This was probably our worst shooting game of the year."

The first half was an offensive struggle, as both teams shot poorly. HCC, led by Tina Polla's 10 first-half points, held a slim 22-21 lead at the break.

"I thought our defensive effort throughout the game was fantastic, especially in the second half. I told the players following the game that all teams have bad shooting nights, but the better teams pull out victories with strong defense," said Mackey.

"We continue to improve -- particularly on the defensive side of the ball. We've been getting good production from all 10 players and we will need to continue doing so if we're going to compete for the Region XIII crown."

The GCC women (11-7) host the Mesabi Range CC of Virginia, Minn., Saturday at 5:30 p.m.