First-year head coach Tara Belfield has liked what she has seen form her young squad, but she can also appreciate a bit of a respite.

The Rough Riders opened the season Dec. 3 with a 50-42 loss to Bangor, that followed with a 57-34 defeat to Tamaqua the following day, and they bounced back to beat Southern Lehigh, 55-30, Dec. 6.

“I like that after three games we get a bit of a break,” reflected Belfield. “We don’t play until Thursday when Saucon Valley comes to [last] us (see story on page A8). Then we have to travel to Northwestern.

“From what I have been told, Northwestern is one of the better teams in the league. This will give our freshmen another opportunity to step up.”

The girls would fall to the Tigers, but so far, Belfield has been impressed.

“The girls have played hard and responded well,” she added. “We have a really good group of freshmen, and they have been getting better.”

Belfield cited the play of freshmen Shakala Roberts and Sarina Sankari in their recent victory over Southern Lehigh.

“They both really has to step up because of the defense that Southern Lehigh played,” stressed Belfield. “Shakala and Sarina played their best games for us this season.”

The Roughies have been placed by junior guard Hailey Jenkins, who has been among the area’s leading scorers. Belfield expectations about her standout player have been justified.

“Hailey has been exactly as awesome as expected,” beamed Belfield. “In our first game, she scored 28 points against Bangor. She managed to lead us with 24 points even though Southern Lehigh played a defense that focused on her.”

Jenkins feels some pressure, but she is confident about the season and her role on the team.

“I’m actually really nervous for this season,” said Jenkins. “There’s a lot of pressure on me being the team captain. I’m working with many lower classmen this season, which is strange. I’m used to being the youngest and looking up to the other girls.

“Now, I have to take the responsibility of teaching them things. I’ve focused more on my midrange shot this summer. I hope to expand my game this season.”