By RYAN ARENA

Sports Editor

Riverside came out of last week’s Teurlings Catholic tournament still in search of its first win after falling in games with host Teurlings, 73-51, and Opelousas Catholic, 37-34.

In each game, the Rebels saw big swings of momentum go to the opposition in the third quarter, an issue Riverside Coach Ben Wilson says isn’t confined to those two games.

“We’ve had a huge problem this year coming out flat in the second half, specifically the third quarter,” said Riverside Coach Ben Wilson. “We’re trying to figure out the reasons. But it just seems like the other teams are coming out harder than we are.”

In Saturday’s game against Opelousas (4-3), the Rebels led 21-17 at halftime. But the Vikings tied the game by the end of the third quarter. A back and forth fourth quarter saw Riverside lead late, but give up a late, winning surge to Opelousas.

“They pulled it out a lot, looking to control the clock,” said Wilson. “It was a real grind it out type of game. We had the lead, and then we lose it in the last minute or two. It’s a gut wrenching loss.”

Josh Tassin led the Rebels (0-8) with 18 points.

Teurlings Catholic (9-5), meanwhile, did no such thing to slow down the game’s pace, instead electing to run and gun with Riverside. Teurlings did it with success, hitting eight 3-pointers in the game. They led 40-29 at halftime, but took control for good in the third quarter, outscoring Riverside 17-6 in the period.

“We’re turning the ball over, and forcing shots from the outside,” said Wilson. “Then they make a wide open 3-pointer. It kills any momentum you have.”

Kane Keller scored 14 to lead Riverside. Tassin scored 12. Tate Scioneaux added 10.

Wilson said that so many near misses within the first eight games has obviously been frustrating for his team.

“At this point, it’s just a mental thing,” he said. “The guys look at how the year’s gone, and believe we should at least be 4-4. The good thing is, these teams are very similar to the ones we play in our district. We’ll be battle-tested.”