Purcell sisters power Raiders past Blue Jays

(Nashua, NH) The sisters were at it again as they combined for 57 total points as Rivier defeated Saint Joseph College, 106-90 this afternoon in GNAC action.

Senior Amandra Purcell (Hudson, NH) helped the Raiders improve to 6-1 inside of GNAC play as she recorded a game high 32 points. She was also lights out from beyond the arc where she knocked down 8 of 12 attempts. Reigning GNAC Rookie of the Week, freshman Deanna Purcell (Hudson, NH) continues to shine bright as she added 25 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists – tied with Amandra for the game high.

The Raiders (12-6, 6-1 GNAC) also got solid contributions from sophomores Ryan Baker (Whitinsville, MA), Jaclyn Penniman (Dudley, MA) and Erin Sweeney (Chicopee, MA). Each scored in double-digits in the victory as they combined for 45 points (19, 11 and 15 respectively). Penniman also recorded the games only double-double with 10 rebounds.

For Saint Joseph (11-6, 3-4 GNAC), the leading scorer was Devon Diliberto who sank six three pointers on her way to 26 points. Mary Hyde also contributed with 21 points while Heather Framski (16 points) and Chelsea Alves (10 points) recorded double figures in points. Shauna Sullivan was the team leader with a game high, 11 rebounds.

Paced by the Purcell sisters, the Raiders came out of the half and put the game away. Rivier went on a 41-15 run over the first 11 minutes and eventually had a 29 point lead. As a team, the Raiders were superb from the floor as they checked in at a 59.4% clip. They were also 46.4% from three point land and a perfect 11-for-11 from the line. Saint Joseph was 46.1%, 47.8% and 90% during the game.

Rivier will return to action on Monday night (1/30) as they welcome the Mount Ida College Mustangs to the Muldoon Gymnasium. Game time is set for 7pm.