NEW ULM, Minn. - The Martin Luther College men's basketball team fell short against UMAC-leading UW-Superior in a 69-54 loss on Saturday.

The Knights fell behind early by the score of 14-3, but coach Greg Holzhueter changed to a zone defense that frustrated UWS and helped MLC cut the deficit to 33-30 at the half.

MLC continued to hold down the Yellowjackets on the defensive end in the second half, but struggled mightily on the offensive end to take advantage. The Knights scored only eight points in the first 13:53 of the second half as UWS steadily built on its lead on the way to the win.

The Knights held UWS to 42.4 percent shooting for the game, but shot just 33.3 percent on offense. MLC struggled both from the outside (6-23 from beyond the three-point arc) and the free throw line (4-12), as well.

Ian Paulsen led MLC with 15 points to go with six rebounds and three blocks. Josh Tomlin added four steals and six points, while Austin DeNoyer finished with seven points.

MLC fell to 2-11 overall and 0-6 in UMAC play in defeat. UWS improved to 8-6 on the season and 6-0 in league play with the win.

The Knights will return to action on Monday, January 13, when they host Concordia-Moorhead in non-conference action. That game is scheduled to tip off at 6 p.m.