Spiders defeat Rhode Island

The Richmond Spiders defeated the Rhode Island Rams 69-61 at the Ryan Center.  Despite a sloppy start, the Spiders were able to end the 1st half on a 13-2 run to lead 30-19 at the half.  The Rams were heavily out-rebounding Richmond early on, but the Spiders were able to limit Rhode Island on second chance points.  The Spiders were lead by Nathan Cayo, who contributed 19 points & 11 rebounds in the Richmond victory.  Jacob Gilyard picked up 6 points and 2 steals in the Spider victory, putting him in a tie atop Richmond all-time steals leaderboard, with Greg Beckwith.  Rhode Island shot 35% from the field, including going 7-33 in the first 20 minutes.  This seemed to set the tone for this one, and Richmond never looked back.

Spiders Came out of Locker Room Strong

Whatever Chris Mooney told his squad at the end of the 1st half, it worked. Richmond came out and played the best they have all season after the break.  Rhode Island cut into the Richmond lead later on in the half, but resilience was the key for the Spiders.  Each time the Rams would make a run, Richmond would find a way to answer.  Nick Sherod hit some clutch 3’s down the stretch for Richmond, and he finished with 13 points in the victory.  Nathan Cayo however was the difference in this one.  He recorded a double-double, and just had an all-around great game today.  Blake Francis had another double figure game with 13 points, including going 3-7 from deep.  Grant Golden finished this one with 10 points, 9 rebounds, and 5 assists.

Rhode Island Shooting Woes

The Rams just couldn’t piece anything together for long stretches in this one.  One of the reasons this one stayed close, was due to how many times they got to the foul line.  Rhode Island went 11-17 from the charity stripe in today’s contest.  Star guard Fatts Russell was limited to just 3 points, including shooting 1-12.  He was in foul trouble in this one, as he picked up 4 fouls.  In a game that many feared would be very difficult for the Spiders on the boards, they really got it going in the 2nd half.  They were out-rebounded, but only by a small margin of 46-41.  One thing that needs to be polished will be limiting offensive boards in the future, as Rhode Island recorded 13 today.

What’s Next?

After starting conference play 2-0, Richmond will get a much needed rest, and will be back in action on Saturday at the Robins Center where they take on Saint Louis.  Winning these first 2 conference games will be a huge boost for the Spiders, not only bracket wise, but for their confidence as well.  As always, be sure to stay up to date on @AustinDaisey11 & @A10Talk on Twitter, as well as on our forums on www.a10talk.com.  We will see you Saturday Spider Nation!