Barrington High School was the lone team from the Ocean State to win a game in the Jiggs Cecchini RI vs Connecticut Challenge last week. 

The Eagles defeated Bloomfield, Conn., 48-33, in one of four games between Rhode Island and Connecticut high school teams. All four games were played at Mogehan Sun on Thursday, Dec. 14.

Matt Raffa knocked down four three-pointers and finished with 22 points to lead Barrington. Nick Scandura added 15 points, including three three-pointers. 

Barrington High School Coach Mike Raffa said his team’s defensive effort played a key role in the victory.

“Defense has to be our focal point this year. Our defense has to travel. Our defense has to carry us,” Raffa said. 

“When you compete against better teams, that’s when it’s harder to score.”

Coach Raffa said Evan Anderson played his best game of the season, and shined bright early in the contest. Anderson scored two quick baskets for Barrington and found his teammates with key assists, Coach Raffa said. 

Matt Raffa and Owen Pfeffer sunk three-pointers in the first quarter. The Eagles outscored Bloomfield 24-0 from behind the three-point arc. 

Barrington also held an edge at the free throw line. The Eagles went six-for-eight from the charity stripe while Bloomfield was three-for-13. 

The Eagles led 15-10 after the first quarter and held a 25-19 edge at halftime. Bloomfield finished last year’s season with a 23-3 record and reached the Connecticut State Championship finals. 

Coach Raffa said his team’s win against Cumberland on Sunday, Dec. 10 offered a good warmup for the battle against Bloomfield. He said the Clippers played a very physical game against the Eagles.

“Having that game was good preparation,” Coach Raffa said. 

Barrington is 3-0 overall so far this season, and 1-0 in league play. The Eagles are scheduled to play their home-opener on Monday night, Dec. 18 against Central.