ADAMS —The Southland girls basketball team struggled in the second half as it lost 68-52 to Winona Cotter in Adams Monday.

Southland sophomore McKendry Kennedy hit two free throws to pull the Rebels (1-5 overall, 1-4 Three Rivers) within 39-36 before halftime, but the Ramblers (5-4 overall) opened the second half on a 11-4 run and the Southland couldn’t get closer than eight points the rest of the way.

Southland head coach Dean Bendtsen said the Rebels also struggled in the second half of a loss to Blooming Prairie last week.

“I didn’t like the way we came out of the locker room [tonight],” Bendtsen said. “I’ve got to change our mentality about how we come out in the second half. I don’t know if I’m saying the wrong things or using the wrong tactics, but I’ve got to figure it out.”

Southland dominated the boards as the team finished with 50 rebounds. Kaysie Allen had eight points and 13 rebounds for the Rebels, Sydney Bendtsen had 18 points and nine rebounds and Olivia Gray had 13 points and six rebounds.

However, the Rebels had 25 turnovers and they were able to force just eight turnovers from Cotter.

“They’re a pretty decent team and [Gabby] Bowlin is a nice player,” Dean said. “She’s physical, she’s quick and she’s got a nice shot. We didn’t answer her very well.”

The Rebels will now head to winter break and their next game is Jan. 5.

Cotter 39 29 — 68

Southland 36 16 — 52

Southland scoring: Sydney Bendtsen, 18; Olivia Gray, 13; Kaysie Allen, 8; McKendry Kennedy, 6; Kelsie Lamp, 4; Gabby Smith, 2; Meredith Heimer, 1; free throws: 39 percent (7-for-18); rebounds: 50 (Lamp, 13); turnovers: 25