Box Score Monmouth couldn't overcome a brief second half spurt by Dubuque, falling to the Spartans 91-81.

The teams played virtually even through the first 30 minutes before Dubuque jumped ahead in the see-saw game by 10 midway through the second half.

Andrew Mathison powered his way to 21 points and 13 rebounds in the post while Jon Calhoun hit 8 of his 11 free throws to score 15 points. Nick Marema added 14.

Monmouth opens league play Saturday afternoon hosting Ripon.