BRISTOL, R.I. - The Roger Williams University women's basketball edged out the University of New England in a hard-fought matchup that went down to the wire, ending 65-63 in overtime.
Offensively this match, the Hawks scoring was led by junior
Sophia Coppola (Madison, Conn.), having 16 points, and senior
Elizabeth Dufrane (Falls Church, Va.) who had 15 points this game. The Hawks shot 39.7% from the field and found themselves on the free-throw line quite often, allowing them to continue to add to the scoreboard and converting 13 of 19 attempts. Sophomore
Lilli Clark (Willimantic, Conn.) added eight points to the board for the Hawks, while sophomore
Meg Qualey (Woburn, Mass.) provided four assists to help facilitate the offense.
On the other side of the court, UNE was carried by Kaia Anderson's 25-point performance, along with five rebounds and five steals. Hannah Cook was efficient as well, scoring 14 points for the Nor'Easters, while Gabby Soter added 13 points. However, the team struggled with shooting consistency, finishing at 32.3% from the field.
Defensively this game, Roger Williams held a significant edge in rebounding, 49-33. The Hawks also registered six blocks and forced 14 turnovers, limiting UNE's opportunities. UNE countered with aggressive defense, forcing 20 turnovers and recording 10 steals throughout the game. Anderson's five steals were a key part of the Nor'easters' effort, while Cook and Soter provided a strong defensive presence for the duration of the match as well.
Roger Williams (17-8, 14-4 CNE) will now turn their focus to their upcoming conference matchup as the postseason Conference of New England begins on Tuesday, Feb 25th at 7:30 pm where the Hawks will host Suffolk at home.