Gophers lose rematch with Michigan State, 61-50

Feb. 6, 2013; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans center Adreian Payne (5) is fouled by Minnesota Golden Gophers forward Trevor Mbakwe (32) during 2nd half at Jack Breslin Students Events Center. MSU won 61-50. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports

The Gophers’ two-game winning streak came to an end as Minnesota lost to a banged up Michigan State on the road Wednesday night, 61-50.

The loss is No. 18 Minnesota’s sixth in the last eight games. It also adds to the Gophers’ dismal record against ranked opponents this season at 2-5 with wins coming against then-No. 19 Memphis and No. 12 Illinois a month ago.

Minnesota’s offense was again missing as the Gophers shot 37 percent and converted only 9-of-15 free throws. Only Andre Hollins scored in double-figures, doing so late in the second half on a three-point shot to bring the game within five points.

Both teams started out slow as Minnesota led at halftime 20-18, but a run early in the second half restored the lead for the Spartans who took it to the finish line.

Despite playing without an injured Travis Trice and a not-100 percent Gary Harris, the Spartans managed to hold-off the Gophers.

Harris and fellow guard Keith Appling scored 15 and 14 points, respectively while the entire team only combined for five turnovers.

On the other end, the Gophers committed 12 turnovers including three a piece for Andre and Austin Hollins.

Austin Hollins finished the game 3-for-13 from the field and did not connect on a three-pointer in seven attempts. He finished with eight points and six rebounds.

Trevor Mbakwe nearly had another double-double but instead he finished the game with nine points and 14 rebounds.

With a 5-5 conference record, from here until the end of the season, each game is a must-win as the Gophers look to halt their conference standings slide.

Minnesota will host Illinois at home on Sunday at 5 p.m. CT.