Late mistakes cost Rider
As a young team continues to grow, a coach will get a little of glimpse into the future and then in the next instant there’s a reminder of their youth.
That was the case for the Rider women’s basketball team when it faced a very good Fairfield five.
The Broncs allowed coach Lynn Milligan a peek into what is possible as they battled the Stags into the final period before falling 70-59 on Saturday afternoon in Alumni Gymnasium in a Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference game.
The Broncs (1-9, 0-5 MAAC) came out strong only to see Fairfield (4-1, 3-0 MAAC) seize the lead at the half. Rider fought back to knot the game at 48-48 heading to the fourth quarter.
Then the experience of the Stags took over.
The two will meet again Sunday at 2 p.m. at Rider.
“We had some players really step up and do some great things,’’ said Milligan. “Unfortunately, some of the breakdowns we had came in the fourth quarter.’’
The drought came at the wrong time as the Broncs were held scoreless for the first four minutes of the final period and it allowed Fairfield to gain control and they enjoyed their biggest lead of the game at 64-54.
“I can’t wait to play tomorrow,’’ Milligan said of the repeat match with the Stags. “I saw that we can make a few tweaks. We felt good about a lot of the stuff we did, so we are ready to get right back out there. The only way we are going to get better is to just keep doing it.’’
Makayla Firebaugh, a freshman, led the Broncs with a career-high 19 points, including a career high four from beyond the arc. Maya Hyacienth, a sophomore, poured in 17 points.
The pair were named the MAAC Rookie and Player of the Week, respectively, last week and stated their case for a repeat honor.
The duo will challenged, though, by Fairfield’s Lou LopezSenechal, the MAAC Preseason
Player of the Year. Lopez-Senechal finished with 27 points.
Katie Armstrong added 15 for the Stags and Andrea Hernangomez had 10 points. Fairfield was 10-for-17 from beyond the arc.
“They are a veteran team and when they had to execute offense in the fourth quarter they did and I have to give them credit for that,’’ said Milligan. “They were able to get the right kids with the ball in the right spot.’’
Firebaugh certainly has found her spot as the freshman is showing both promise and poise.
“She doesn’t play with any fear and that is the best thing about a freshman,’’ Milligan said of Firebaugh. “She puts the work in, her and Maya (Hyacienth) both. They are in the gym every day and when you do that you are going to get results.’’
Firebaugh brings a swagger to the court, too.
“Ever since I have been born I’ve been told I have a very high confidence level,’’ said Firebaugh. “It doesn’t matter if I miss a shot, I don’t get down on myself. It’s in the moment and I just keep going.’’