Sweeney's late bucket in OT lifts Raiders over Mount Ida

(Nashua, NH) In a classic back and forth battle between Rivier and Mount Ida, it was the Raiders who were able to score the games last bucket in a thrilling 71-69 overtime win this evening at the Muldoon Gymnasium.

In the extra frame, it was Rivier sophomore Erin Sweeney (Chicopee, MA) who made the game winning layup with a second remaining after receiving a perfect pass from senior Amandra Purcell (Hudson, NH). Sweeney finished the game with just four very important points.

Holding onto a slim three point lead, the Raiders (13-6 overall, 7-1 GNAC) missed a crucial free throw with 0:14 seconds remaining. Mount Ida senior Shannon Wood got possession of the ball and with defenders in her face, drilled a three pointer to tie the game with just 0:02 left in the 2nd half.

Rivier was paced by the scoring effort of Amandra Purcell. She scored 26 total points, including knocking down six three pointers. Younger sister, freshman Deanna Purcell (Hudson, NH) recorded 12 points and 8 rebounds. Sophomore Jaclyn Penniman (Dudley, MA) had 17 points – shooting 8-for-9 from inside the line – and collected 8 rebounds.

Wood finished the game 9 points, all from beyond the arc. Katie Morvan and Amanda Bolio were the team leaders with 14 points each. Wood was also the team leader in rebounds with 8.

The Raiders will return to action on Wednesday night with a tough GNAC road game. They will travel down to Beacon Hill in Boston, MA to take on Suffolk University. Game time is set for 7pm. The next home game for Rivier will be on Saturday (2/4) against Simmons College.