UTICA — In a hard-fought matchup between Mohawk Valley and North Country, Mohawk Valley pulled out a 76-72 victory.

North Country coach Chad LaDue said his team had to deal with losing five players in the game.

"We had five guys foul out, so we had to play with a lot of our reserves," LaDue said. "It's a first for me, to have five guys foul out in a regulation game. We got to play without fouling."

The first half saw both teams stay in the matchup and keep it close. At the half, Mohawk Valley had a 34-30 advantage.

The game remained close throughout the second half, and the Saints had a chance to pull ahead with 19 seconds left. But the 3-point attempt missed, keeping them down by two. The loss moves North Country to 2-1 on the season.

Mohawk Valley (2-2) saw strong performances from Janeel Frith, who scored 29 points, and Jordan Brown who scored 11.

North Country's top performers were Brian Donaire, who had 22 points, 12 rebounds and five assists, and Frane Larose who scored nine points and dished out seven assists.

LaDue said his team missed key shots from the foul line, but seeing his reserves play strong was a positive he saw from his team.

"We missed 16 foul shots and a couple of those were the front end of a 1-and-1," LaDue said. "I was very pleased with our toughness and I though our bench came in and played outstanding."