Adam Conheeny scored a game-high 20 points to lead Portsmouth to a dominant 78-34 victory over Middletown in the Islanders’ home opener Thursday night at Middletown High School.

The Patriots came out firing in the first half, building a 40-23 lead by halftime and never looking back in the lopsided island rivalry contest.

Jack Casey added 16 points for Portsmouth, which controlled the game from start to finish. The Patriots’ stifling defense held Middletown to just 11 points in the second half.

TJ Martinez led Middletown with 13 points, while Ryan Johnson chipped in 12 for the Islanders, who struggled to find offensive rhythm against their cross-island rivals.

Portsmouth’s 17-point halftime advantage only grew in the second half as the Patriots pulled away for the 44-point victory.

Justin Walker is a Newport County native who specializes in sports, portraits, weddings and events as a freelance photographer around New England. Justin has over a decade of experience starting in college covering high profile events, collegiate and professional sports in Washington, D.C. His photojournalism and freelance work can be seen in various local and national publications. Check out his work at justinlwalkerphotography.com!