Despite missing several key players due to injuries, the Central College Men’s basketball team battled at Luther College last night before being dealt its first Iowa Conference setback as the Norse prevailed 53-48 in Decorah.  The Dutch had an inexperienced squad entering the season, but had to dig even deeper into the bench with injuries to starters Brock Caves and James Chapline, along with Jacob Winkler.  

Still Central found themselves holding a 24-21 halftime lead – an advantage that would be short-lived.  The Norse rattled off a 19-3 run to go up 43-31 with 10 minutes remaining.  The Dutch weren’t done yet, though, as they climbed back to within 47-45 at the 5-minute mark and were at 49-48 with 3 minutes left, but went scoreless the rest of the way.

Center Jack Bruns had 17 points and eight rebounds but was the only Central player to crack double figures.  The loss drops the Central men to 6-5 overall and 2-1 in conference play; with a home showdown with Coe coming up on Saturday.

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