Posted: Jan 19, 2012
Using an 11-5 run late in the first half, the Rivier College Raiders took home their 2nd GNAC victory with a 76-63 victory over Suffolk University.
Rivier (4-10 overall, 2-5 GNAC) had four different players reach the double digit scoring plateau. They were led by sophomore Jake Nelson (Nashua, NH) who knocked down 3-of-3 from beyond the arc to net 17 points. Senior Brain Troy (Westmoreland, NH) ignited a spark of the bench as he was able to score his season high, 16 points. Making his first start of the season, junior Garon Whitney (Dover, NH) did not disappoint. He recorded 12 points, 12 rebounds and made a highlight reel play in the paint as the Raiders won their first home game during the 2011-2012 season. Sophomore Tom Poitras (Bow, NH) continues to have a terrific season as he added 14 points.
Rivier's defense kept the Ram scoring attack inside the arc as Suffolk was unable to knock down a three pointer in 13 attempts. The Raiders also outshot the visitors 44% to 39% in the contest while taking the rebounding advantage 46 to 27.
Junior Matt Pepdjonovic was the leading scorer for Suffolk, who fell to 5-10 overall and 2-6 inside of conference play. He had 17 points while collecting 10 rebounds for the Rams' only double-double of the night. Senior Justin Barall chipped in 14 points – including a perfect 6-for-6 from the line in the loss.
Both teams will be back in action on Saturday afternoon. Suffolk will host Norwich University with a 3pm tip off while the Raiders will welcome Mount Ida College. Game time is set for 1pm inside the Muldoon Gymnasium. It won't be long before these two teams meet again as their next match-up will be at Suffolk on Tuesday, January 24th.
(Story courtesy of Rivier College Sports Information)