PUEBLO, Colo. (GoThunderWolves.com - Jan. 13, 2011) - If defense wins championships, then Metro State should be well on their way as the seventh-ranked Roadrunners defeated CSU-Pueblo 55-49.

The ThunderWolves shot 32 percent from the floor largely, in part to a gritty defensive effort from the Roadrunners.

Both teams battled back-and-forth early in the game but a strong start to the second half by the Roadrunners saw the Pack down by 18. The ThunderWolves had scored one point before a 3-pointer by Kendall Babler (Sr., Rifle, Colo.) more than seven minutes into the second half ended the run.

The Pack would go on a huge run to end the game, inching back into it after undoing a 36-18 Metro State lead, setting up the opportunity for dramatics.

Down five points with 1:28 remaining, Erica Hicks (Sr., Lakewood, Colo.) worked her way to the basket before being fouled and hitting an off-balance shot. The free throw fell short though and the Roadrunners were able to hit their free throws down the stretch to seal the game.

The Pack also played a great defensive game holding the Roadrunners to 32 percent, shooting as well, making the game of the RMAC's top two defenses live up to the billing.

Metro State was led by Caley Dow, as she finished with 13 points and 13 rebounds to earn her a double-double. The depth and length of the Roadrunners showed as they outrebounded the Pack 55-35.

CSU-Pueblo saw a strong effort from Laurel Kearsley (Jr., Victor, Idaho), who finished with a game-high 17 points while collecting eight rebounds.

The Pack have one more game in their weekend slate against Regis. Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 p.m.