SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Augustana women's basketball improved to 2-0 on the young season, by defeating the Lopers of Nebraska-Kearney 82-63, in their second game in as many days at the University of Sioux Falls, Saturday evening.

Augustana used a deep bench Saturday, playing 12 girls, to once again put the pressure on the opposition. The Vikings forced 12 Loper turnovers in the first half and 21 for the game, while playing an in-your-face, full court press. It was the Vikings second straight game forcing at least 21 turnovers. They forced 25 against Northwest Missouri State the night before.

Augustana had four girls score in double figures Saturday. Nicole Kerkhoff led all scores with 22, Logan O'Farrell had 14, Sydney Rome had 13 and Paige Peterson had 10. In all, 10 Vikings scored against the Lopers.

Success in the Paint

Augustana used its height and speed to its advantage early in the the game getting its first eight points of night in the paint from dribble-drives from Kenney and post-ups from Peterson and Kerkhoff.Kerkhoff had six of the first 11 Viking points, all in the paint. Kerkhoff ended the game with a game-high 22 points and four rebound.

Peterson added 10, hard fought points in the game, while also bringing down seven boards, three on offense and four of defense.Peterson tied with Rome for the team lead in rebounds.

The Vikings had 42 points in the paint with 12 of those coming off the fastbreak and 12 coming on second chance opportunities.

Defense, Defense, Defense

Augustana ramped up the defense pressure early and often against the Lopers. They earned 23 points off 21, Loper turnovers. Logan O'Farrell led the team in steals with three while also adding two blocks to the team's total of five.

Kerkhoff added two steals while Peterson, Kenney, Rome, Presley O'Farrell and Naomi Rust each added one steal. In all the Vikings had 10 steals, their second straight game with double-digit steals.

The Vikings had seven athletes earn at least one block against the Lopers. O'Farrell had three while Kerkhoff had two and Rome, Presley and Shelby Selland each added one.

Tip-Ins

Augustana has now started 2-0 for the third consecutive season, dating back to 2012-13 when they started the season 9-0. The Vikings move to 7-3 all-time against the Lopers of Nebraska- Kearney.

Next Up

Augustana will be on the road once again next Friday, as they travel to Chadron, Neb. to take on the Eagles of Chadron State. Tip-off for that contest is set to begin at 7 p.m. (CT).