ROCK ISLAND, Ill. – Augustana women's basketball (1-0) fought their way to a season-opening victory over the Knox Prairie Fire (0-1) this evening. Senior forward Lauren Hall dominated ini the second half with a double-double in the Vikings' debut.
 
The Vikings jumped out to an early 10-4 lead before Knox settled into the game. Eventually, a three-pointer from Sarina Dacio knotted the score at 10. Both teams went back-and-forth for the remainder of the game and Augustana held a slim one-point advantage at the half.
 
Augustana's defense showed up after the break as Knox was held to just seven points in the third quarter. The Prairie Fire did not roll over, though, as the fourth quarter was full of offensive fireworks.
 
The final period was the highest scoring of the game with 38 total points. With under two minutes to play, Juliana Vinluan nailed a jumper to give Knox a 53-52 lead. The lead shifted a handful more over the final moments of the game, but a Grace Nestich free throw sealed the deal at 57-55. Knox outscored Augie 21-17, but the fourth quarter was not enough to eclipse the home team's lead.
 
The Prairie Fire were led by Catessa Duran with 11 points and five rebounds.
 
Augustana had three players in double figures led by Lauren Hall's 20. Gabriela Loiz and Macy Beinborn added 12 and 10, respectively. Hall also led the way on the glass with a game-high 10 rebounds. Hannah Simmer plucked seven boards as well.
 
The Vikings will travel to Cedar Rapids, Iowa this weekend for their next pair of games. Augie will take on Central College on Friday, Nov. 12 and Coe College on Saturday, Nov. 13.