It may have been a dogfight, but it was a matter of survival for the Salukis.

The SIUC women grabbed the early lead over Bradley University Thursday night and never looked back. Despite 12 first-half turnovers, the Salukis took a commanding 26-16 lead at halftime.

SIUC had dry spells in both halves, but solid defense kept the Salukis ahead, resulting in a 55-46 victory.

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Thursday’s game marks the fewest points the Salukis have given up in a Missouri Valley Conference game this season. On Nov. 30, the Salukis played a solid defensive effort in a 77-40 victory against the University of Puerto Rico.

Going into Thursday’s game, the conference opponents were averaging 70 points per game against the Salukis.

SIUC’s recent shooting woes were not a factor, as the team posted a 49 percent field goal average Thursday. The Salukis also outrebounded the Braves 32-29 and controlled the offensive boards, 13-12.

SIUC moves to 5-9 for the season and are 2-4 in the MVC, while the Braves are now 6-9 and 1-6 in conference play.

SIUC takes on the University of Northern Iowa at 3:05 p.m. Saturday in Des Moines, Iowa.