The Austin girls basketball team struggled in the first half as it lost 60-46 at Rochester Mayo Thursday.

The Spartans (2-0 overall, 1-0 Big Nine), who are ranked No. 9 in Class AAAA, took a 32-20 lead into halftime, but the Packers (1-1 overall, 1-1 Big Nine) played much better in the second half.

“We were a little bit intimidated and they have a very good basketball team,” Austin head coach Todd Johnson said. “I felt like we competed very well with them in the second half and I’m proud of the kids.”

Austin scoring: Ruth Koang, 14; Shayley Vesel, 12; Ashley Hawkshead, 9; Awenia Nywesh, 3; Kelsey Sederquest, 3; Rebecca Younis, 3; Amber Hansen 2; free throws: 50 percent (9-for-18)