Robert Largenton
Connector Contributer

After coming off a tough loss to the University of Hartford, the women’s basketball team returned to the Costello Athletic Center last Thursday to square off with a fellow America East foe, the Black Bears of the University of Maine.

The Black Bears jumped out to a quick lead, going up 11-2 in the first few minutes of the game. The River Hawks refused to take a time out after falling behind by nine in the first few minutes, but rallied together to chip away at the Black Bears lead, going on a 12-2  run and taking the lead 14-13 early on in the first half.

That was the story of the whole first half as the Black Bears went up by a few and the River Hawks chipped away at the lead, trailing only by seven (33-26) going into half time.

The second half was a different story, as the Black Bears came out shooting and amassed a 20 point lead with only eight minutes left in the game, leading UMass Lowell 64-44.

The River Hawks did not go down easy, as solid play on defense and terrific play in the paint helped them close the gap. Unfortunately, the clock was on the side of the Black Bears.

It is often said that the game ends differently if a few more minutes are played – such was the case for the River Hawks, as they closed the gap to just nine points when the final buzzer sounded.

The night was an impressive one for a number of River Hawks, including forward Lindsey Doucette, who finished with 17 points and 13 rebounds, good for the second double-double of her collegiate career. Jasmine McRoy also played well, recording 19 points and eight rebounds in the loss.

But the good play was not limited to the leading scorers, as all the River Hawks who played made contributions in the hard fought loss against the Black Bears. Shannon Samuels led the River Hawks with three steals to go along with her 16 points, and freshman Nicole Hayner chipped in with two three pointers and a defensive rebound.

Fellow freshman Brittany Lomanno continued a string of solid play running the River Hawk offense, showing no fear when driving the lane and making quick passes. Her effort led to a solid performance with five points, one steal, four assists and two rebounds.

Even after their 15th loss of the season, the River Hawks are slowly improving with every minute played, thanks to solid play from both the upperclassmen and the underclassmen.

With the great play from multiple players and a never give up attitude, it is clear that the River Hawks are looking to show every opponent that they are ready to be in Division 1 and should not be overlooked.