RAPID RIVER — Norway came up just shy of its first victory Tuesday evening, falling 53-46 to Rapid River in Skyline girls basketball.

“After a hot start for their big girl (Natalie) Belanger and us not responding to the speed of the game led to our halftime deficit,” Norway coach Joe Tinti said. “Kaitlyn Hosking and Cadeance Lindsley did a nice job limiting her as the game when on.”

Rapid River led 28-16 at halftime.

“We brought the game to within five in the second half and took control of the momentum,” said Tinti. “Some made free throws at a crucial point for R-R and the inability to make second and third chance shots ultimately led to our demise.”

Tinti noted Kassie Gyselink, with a team high 18 points, had a great night offensively, and that MacKenzie Clifford put together a solid performance on both sides of the ball.

Belanger led the Rockets with a game high 24 points.

“We have put together good halves but we now need to start putting together complete games. Our girls came out flat and did not catch up to the pace of the game until the second half.” said Tinti.

Norway (0-3, 0-2) returns home Thursday to entertain Niagara. Norway won the JV game.

Norway 7 9 22 8 — 46

R. River 13 15 12 13 — 53

NORWAY: Lindsley 2, Stanchina 7, Gyselink 18, Clifford 10, Hosking 8, Chellew 1. FT: 15-32. F: 18. 3-pt FG: Stanchina. FGs: 15-52. FO: Neuens, Clifford.

RR: Pilon 4, E. Goodacre 2, Keys 2, K. Goodacre 10, Belanger 24, Q. Spriks 2, Poore, 4, Cheperon 5. FT: 7-22. F: 24. 3-pt FG: K. Goodacre, Cheperon. FG : 22-68. FO: Keys, E. Goodacre, Pilon.