GEORGETOWN, Texas - Southwestern held off a final Crusader run to defeat the University of Dallas 59-51 Saturday evening. 

The Pirates were firing on all cylinders and led by 16 at halftime after allowing just 15 first half points to UD. Following the break Dallas refused to go quietly and turned up the pressure, forcing the Pirates into 15 second half turnovers. Dallas pulled within 10 four times in the third quarter after being down by as many as 20 early in the frame. 

Every time Dallas made a run Southwestern had the answer and kept the Crusaders at an arm's length the rest of the way. 

SU shot 38.2% from the field and 31.3% from three point range in the win. Noel Pratts led with 12 points while Kelsey Faykus added 11 points and a team high eight rebounds. 

Defense was the true difference maker as the Pirates held UD to under 30% from the field and three point range. Tori Carraway led the charge with four steals.

The win improves Southwestern to 8-11 on the year and 4-4 in the SCAC. They return to the road for a crucial match-up against Texas Lutheran University on Tuesday evening in Seguin, Texas.