The Lady Raiders staged a massive second half comeback, but fell short against the reigning state champions and crosstown rivals the Ventura Pirates 60-57.

Defensive breakdowns were the key factor in the loss against the Pirates. The help- side defense came too late allowing the Pirate three-point-shooters to knock down open looks.

“We had defensive breakdowns, and took early shots,” said coach Remy McCarthy. “And when you do that, good teams are going to make you pay.”

The Raiders jumped to an early lead and were winning 14-7 midway through the first half. Forced turnover and great midrange shooting allowed the Raiders to lead early.

“We were overall pumped for the game, there are biggest rival,” said Sydney Bennett, sophomore forward.

The Raiders could not ride the high of their great start and trailed by 9 at half 31-22.

Coming out of half time the Lady Raiders were again applying the pressure and started on a 10-2 run. This was cancelled out by an impressive 9-1 run by the Pirates.

“The message [at halftime] was to keep our emotions under control, and get back on defense,” said Bennett, the former Agoura Charger.

Despite being down by 12 midway through the second half, the Lady Raiders were able to come back by hitting shots, and playing sound defense.

“Basketball comes down to hitting shots, and we were able to hit 3 pointers late in the game,” said McCarthy.

The Lady Raiders fell just short against the Pirates with a costly turnover with under 10 seconds left in the game.

The Lady Raiders look to avenge this loss when Allan Hancock College comes to Campus Road on Jan. 31 at 5 p.m.