ST. LOUIS - Missouri Baptist University women's basketball dropped a hard-fought 70-65 game to Peru State on Saturday afternoon, battling back from an early deficit before coming up just short in the final minutes.

Riley Jansen led the Spartans with 15 points while adding seven rebounds and three assists. Abigail Williams also finished in double figures with 12 points, going 8-for-9 from the free-throw line to help keep the Spartans within striking distance throughout the game.

Peru State opened the contest with a strong first quarter, holding Missouri Baptist to nine points while building a 15-9 advantage. The Spartans responded in the second quarter, shooting 60 percent from the field and outscoring the Bobcats 23-15 to take a 32-30 lead into halftime.

The game remained tight in the third quarter as Peru State regained momentum behind efficient shooting, edging Missouri Baptist 23-18 in the period to move ahead 53-50. The Spartans continued to fight in the fourth, trimming the deficit to five points late, but Peru State held on with timely baskets and free throws to secure the win.

Missouri Baptist returns to action with another Heart of America Conference matchup, looking to bounce back and build momentum as conference play continues. They will play Central Methodist on January 14. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. at the Petty SRC.