Vikings Downed by Second Half Surge, 56-47

THE BASICS

Bridgewater State, 56 vs. Salem State, 47

Records: 

Bridgewater St. Bears (10-9, 9-0) 

Salem State Vikings (9-11, 5-4)

Location: Salem, Mass. - Twohig Gymnasium

Date: Wednesday, February 4, 2026

THE LEAD - Despite a monstrous 29 point double double from Ernidia Goncalves (Sr.) and a dominant third quarter surge, the Salem State women's basketball team was unable to secure a victory against the Bridgewater State Bears, falling 56-47. After outscoring the Bears 23-7 in the third period to take an 11 point lead, the Vikings suffered a late scoring drought that allowed the visitors to rally in the final frame.

HOW IT HAPPENED

The contest began as a defensive battle, with Kylie Schrock (Jr.) putting the Vikings on the board first with a three pointer assisted by Maria Orfanos (Sr.). Goncalves and Amayah McConney (Jr.) added points in the paint to keep the game tight, but Bridgewater State held a slim 14-12 lead at the end of the first quarter. The second quarter remained competitive as Goncalves converted multiple layups and Schrock went perfect from the free throw line, though the Vikings headed into halftime trailing 29-24.

The third quarter belonged entirely to Salem State, as they exploded for 23 points while holding the Bears to just seven. Goncalves was unstoppable, scoring 16 points in the period alone, including a clutch three pointer to ignite the crowd. Schrock added a layup and a free throw to help the Vikings build a commanding 47-36 lead heading into the final ten minutes.

The fourth quarter proved difficult for the Vikings' offense, which was held scoreless for the duration of the period. While the Salem State defense fought hard, recording blocks and steals to disrupt the Bears, Bridgewater State capitalized on free throws and late layups to reclaim the lead and seal the 56-47 win.

INSIDE THE NUMBERS

Ernidia Goncalves put together a dominant individual performance, recording a game high 29 points and 16 rebounds. She also contributed two blocks and four steals while logging 39 minutes of action.

Kylie Schrock followed with eight points, three steals, and two rebounds, while Amayah McConney chipped in five points and five boards. Maria Orfanos and Yami Guerrero (Fy.) anchored the defensive effort, combining for seven steals and 10 rebounds. Guerrero also paced the team in playmaking with three assists.

As a team, the Vikings outrebounded the Bears 41-35, including 12 offensive boards. Defensively, Salem State forced 22 turnovers and recorded 15 steals throughout the contest.

UP NEXT

This Saturday, February 7, the Vikings travel to Framingham State University for a rematch against the Rams, tipping off at noon.

By Jack Zenger '25

Photo Credit: Lilly Nunez '25