MUSCODA — Missed free throws proved costly, as Hillsboro suffered a 64–54 non-conference loss at Riverdale last Tuesday night.

Coach Scott Egan’s Tigers came out strong and led by as many as eight points midway through the first half, but missed opportunities at the free throw line hinder Hillsboro’s ability to extend its lead.

“Missed free throws were the only thing that didn’t allow us to extend the lead even bigger,” said Egan.

The Tigers shot just 3 of 10 from the charity stripe in the first 18 minutes and missed the front end of the bonus on two occasions, allowing the host Chieftains (6–2) to pull within a point by halftime at 20–19.

The start of the second half was all Riverdale.

Amanda Meister, who scored 14 of her game-high 19 points in the second half, was too much to handle as Riverdale quickly built a 10-point lead after halftime and maintained it the rest of the night.

“Amanda Meister had a huge second half,” added Egan. “She was tough to stop.”

Hillsboro sophomore Sydney Johnson scored 10 of her team-high 15 points in the second half. She made a number of big shots and came up with three steals in the final five minutes to keep the Tigers within striking distance.

But in the end, Riverdale was too much making just enough free throws to maintain a three-point lead.

Three Tigers fouled out in the contest and the Chieftains took advantage, making 16 of 26 free throw attempts.

Macy Mau, Macey Klebesadel and Autumn Noble each scored 11 points as Riverale had four players score in double digits.

Senior center Morgan Huntley scored 10 points and had nine boards for the Tigers.

Senior guard Destiny Shore added 10 points and six rebounds.

Hillsboro was scheduled to travel to Seneca (5–2) on Tuesday. The Tigers will next travel to Cashton (3–4, 1–2 SBC) on Tuesday, Dec. 5.