SIU did not face a double-digit deficit all night but the Eagles soared a little higher to capture the win.

The Salukis (2-9) were able to stay in the game behind solid post play, while Morehead State University (6-7) capitalized on numerous missed free throws by SIU in the closing minutes.

Coach Cindy Stein said she liked the way her team persevered in the 59-50 loss especially following the fall to University of Tennessee at Martin.

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“After today’s game, at least I feel like we’re competing now for an opportunity to beat people,” Stein said. “When we played Tennessee-Martin, that was the most ridiculous game I think I’ve been a part of in a long time, I just didn’t feel like we had any fight.”

The Salukis were led by sophomore center Dyana Pierre who tallied 21 points and 10 rebounds in route to her fifth double-double of the season.

Pierre said coach emphasized on keeping their hands high on defense and stopping the Eagle players from making their cuts.

“Sometimes we sagged off on that, and that got us in trouble,” Pierre said.

SIU starts conference play Thursday at SIU Arena against the Bradley University Braves at 2:05 p.m. The men’s team taking on Wichita State University at 7:05 p.m.

Tyler Dixon can be reached at [email protected] or @tdixon_de on Twitter.