(Crookston, Minn.)- The University of Minnesota, Crookston has had to battle through injuries and without starters for much of the season. However, things finally went the way of the Golden Eagles on Friday night as they raced out to a 42-22 halftime lead and went on to defeat the University of Minnesota Duluth in Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) Men's Basketball action at Lysaker Gymnasium in Crookston, Minn.

The Golden Eagles led virtually the entire game and had five players in double figures while recording a 35-26 edge in rebounds. Matthew Heier (Sr, G, Ray, N.D.) led U of M, Crookston with 18 points (3-for-10) including going 10-for-11 from the free throw line. He also had four rebounds. Jason Servaty (Jr, G, St. Michael, Minn.) recorded 16 points (6-for-9) including four three-point field goals. He also had four rebounds. Mike Larsen (Jr, F, Bluffdale, Utah) added 13 points (5-for-8) with five rebounds. Darin Weeks (Jr, G/F, Green River, Wyo.) scored 12 points (4-for-8) with eight rebounds. Adam Hendricks (Jr, F, Watertown, Minn.) chipped in 11 points (4-for-8).

The Bulldogs were led by Dylan Rodriguez who scored 18 points (7-for-9) with four rebounds. Ryan Rassmussen added 13 points (5-for-12). Steve Duncan scored 12 points (3-for-6) with five rebounds. Jake Hottenstine added ten points (4-for-11) with six rebounds.

The Golden Eagles improve to 4-18 overall and 1-15 in the NSIC. The Bulldogs fall to 7-16 overall and 4-12 in the NSIC. The University of Minnesota, Crookston returns to NSIC action on Saturday, February 13 when they host Bemidji State University. Tip-off is set for 6 p.m.

For more information, visit the Golden Eagle Athletics Web site at http://www.goldeneaglesports.com/.

The University of Minnesota, Crookston is a NCAA Division II Institution and a member of the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). The Golden Eagle Equestrian team is a member of the Intercollegiate Horse Show Association (IHSA).

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Photo Caption: Matthew Heier (Left), Jason Servaty (Right)