CALGARY – Rust was not a factor for the No. 9 University of Calgary Dinos women's basketball team as they returned to action for the first time since the end of November.

Three Dinos reached double digits in points, fuelling the home side in a 65-48 win over the Mount Royal University Cougars on Friday night at the Jack Simpson Gym.

First-year guard Annacy Palmer scored a team-best 15 points, while teammates Reyna Crawford and Amélie Collin earned 12 and 10 points respectively.

The Dinos' victory lifts them to a 4-3 record, while the Cougars slip to 2-5. 

"Given the impact of injury and COVID-19, it was certainly pleasing to see an effort-full performance from the team," said Dinos head coach Damian Jennings. "We have plenty to tidy ip for tomorrow, but it was a solid start to the weekend with Mount Royal."

Calgary set the tone early, opening the game with an 11-0 run in the first five minutes. They never looked back as they won each of the first three quarters while capitalizing on Mount Royal mistakes, including 27 points off turnovers.

While the Dinos managed to shoot 33 percent or better in all four quarters, the Cougars experienced cold streaks in the opening and final quarters. They leaned heavily on the due of Jamie Lalor and Jenika Martens who each played a game-high 31 minutes. Martens led the game and the Cougars with 16 points. 

Apart from their steady offensive performance, the Dinos were impressive on the defensive end with 13 blocks, compared to just one by their opponent.

The Dinos and Cougars will square off at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 15 for a Crowchild Classic rematch at the Jack Simpson Gym.