Defense is going to be the key to succes for the Raiders this season. Holding a very potent Lion offense to just 52 points gets the season off on the right foot. Riv shot just 32% in the first half; including a dismal 20% from beyond the arc but took a slim 2-point lead into the break. The Raiders twice took 9 point leads after intermission only to let ENC pull ahead by 2 with 6:36 remaining. Riv won this game with outstanding defensive execution and clutch free throw shooting (finishing at a blistering 89% clip).

The Raiders were led by their senior captains. Jess Mellen (Rockland, MA) and Monica White (Augusta, ME) combined for 30 of their team's 58 point while adding 14 rebounds. Junior Steph Adams (Nashua, NH) and freshman Mackenzie Brooks (Colebrook, NH) were outstanding in the paint for the Blue and Gray. The duo combined for 12 points, 15 rebounds and had a physical toughness that had them battling for every loose ball. Freshmen Ashley Metivier (Hudson, NH) and Lauren Brett (Otisfield, ME) were both solid in their rookie debut. They tallied a combined 11 points and 7 rebounds. Their biggest impact came at the free throw line as the duo finished 9-10.

Riv travels to Maine on Friday evening for a tournament at Maine Maritime Academy. The Raiders are slated to play Plymouth State at 6pm.