UNI looks to protect home turf in MVC

Northern Iowa is at home tonight against Southwest Missouri State in Missouri Valley action. The Panthers are coming off their first league loss at Southern Illinois and coach Greg McDermott says this is a “huge game” for the Panthers. He says they’ve been able to protect the home floor thus far and will have to continue that to stay on top of their league.McDermott says Southwest Missouri’s 7-10 record is deceptive because the Bears have lost a number of close games.Southwest Missouri coach Barry Hinson says U-N-I has hard-nosed players. He says Robbie Sieverding is like watching “Nightmare on Elm Street,” because Sieverding’s so good.Hinson says the Panthers have established themselves as a contender.