MILWAUKEE (SabreAthletics.com) – The Marian University women's basketball team held an opponent to 56 points or less for the sixth straight time as it defeated the Alverno Inferno, 67-53, in Northern Athletics Conference action at Reiman Gymnasium tonight, Dec. 19.

Both teams shot 39 percent from the field, but the Sabres garnered five more shots, converting two, and went 19-for-24 (79 percent) at the free throw line compared to 11-for-24 (46 percent) for the Inferno. Alexis Becker tallied 20 points and eight boards to lead all scorers and rebounders in the contest.

Marian improved to 7-3 overall, 4-3 in the NAC with their third straight conference win. Meanwhile, Alverno falls to 3-7 (1-5 NAC).

The game was closer than the end result as both teams combined for six ties and eight lead changes, most of those coming in the first half. The Sabres didn't open up a double-digit lead until 1:18 remaining when Sarah Albert's three-pointer minimized all hope for an Inferno comeback.

The Marian defense stood tall to the task all game, not only by holding another opponent to under 57 points, but the Sabres turned 20 Alverno turnovers into 26 points. Becker led just two Sabres in double figures as Bianca Whittington poured in 11 points and four assists on 2-of-6 shooting and 6-of-6 from the free throw line. Elizabeth Zutz added eight points, including two three-pointers.

Holding a one point, 26-25, lead at halftime, Marian outscored Alverno 41-28 in the second half.

Three players reached double figures for the Inferno, led by Alyssa Jensen's 13 points. Kristen Speerschneider and Hannah Gladstad added 12 and 10 points, respectively.

The Sabres will look to avenge an early season four-point loss to Concordia Wisconsin as they travel to Mequon for a Wednesday tilt with the Falcons. Tip-off is slated for 7 p.m.