The Alternative Press

NEW PROVIDENCE, N.J. - The New Providence Lady Pioneers continued their strong season, beating rival Westfield 41-34 on Thursday afternoon at New Providence High School.

Pioneer senior captain Cassandra Squeri started off the game with a dominant run, scoring nine unanswered points within the first five minutes. New Providence’s tactical style gave them a 13-5 lead by the end of the first quarter.

The second quarter was quite similar to the first, as New Providence continued to rack up points, and prevented Westfield from scoring with aggressive defense. By the end of the first half, the Pioneers managed to extend their lead to 23-13.

Immediately after both teams returned to the court, Westfield picked up the pace and began fighting back against the Pioneers. Westfield’s Jacqueline Knapp carved paths to get past New Providence’s solid defense, and was able to pick up 13 points for the Blue Devils.

Within another ten minutes, New Providence found themselves close to a tie, as the Blue Devils crept within six points, 32-26 by the end of the third quarter. 

Despite a fight by Westfield, the Pioneers were able to pull it together for the final quarter, and fended off their opponents with a final score of 41-34.

“I think we could have focused a little more during the first half, but New Providence played an awesome game,” Knapp said.

Cassandra Squeri led New Providence with a total of 15 points, followed by freshman guard Sydney Morang with 11 points. Lillian Scott and Jacqueline Knapp each totaled 13 points for Westfield.

The win puts the Lady Pioneers’ record at an 11-2, while Westfield’s record fell to 7-7. New Providence will head to Elizabeth on Friday.