By The Hays Daily News

MANHATTAN -- After trailing by 16 points at halftime, the Fort Hays State University women's basketball team outscored NCAA Division I Kansas State University in the second half.

But the Wildcats still claimed an 81-68 exhibition win on Tuesday night at Bramlage Coliseum.

"I think we held our own, especially in the second half," Fort Hays coach Tony Hobson said.

The Tigers trailed 42-26 at halftime, but outscored the Wildcats 42-39 in the second half.

"I thought we acquitted ourselves pretty well," Hobson said. "What I liked, we didn't cave in; we really battled back second half, played with a lot of enthusiasm."

Senior guard Kayla Klug came off the bench to lead Fort Hays with 16 points. Senior Naomi Bancroft started at point guard and scored 15 points. Sophomore Talia Miller also played at the point, as the Tigers search for an answer to find a starter to replace junior transfer Jacie Hoyt, who suffered a season-ending knee injury in preseason.

"We're still trying some different things, trying to see what works best for us," Hobson said.

Senior post Erica Biel, slowed by flu-like symptoms, scored two points.

Forward Ashley Sweat led six Wildcats in double figures with a game-high 20 points.

Fort Hays opens the regular season on Nov. 15 with a home game against Bethany College.