After an intense game, the boys lacrosse team fell to Summit April 4, 4–3.
Early in the first quarter, junior Pat Decker scored, giving WHS a 1–0 lead. Said senior Mike Fitzhenry: “Our first goal gave the whole team energy to play.”
However, Summit quickly answered with a goal of its own a few minutes later.
Westfield maintained a solid defense, with pressure from sophomore Jack Simcox and senior Co-Captain Christian Burgdorf allowing the offense to gain momentum and get shots on net. Seniors Matt Webb and Jack Flaherty were able to get shots through, but failed to score.
In the second quarter, Summit picked up the pace and began to put more pressure on WHS’ defense and goalie, Co-Captain Garrett Williamson.
After completing many passes, Summit was able to get two shots off, both of which were saved by Williamson. However, WHS quickly changed the pace of the game as Flaherty scored, regaining the lead.
Summit piled on pressure after WHS’ goal and was rewarded with a goal to tie the game at 2–2.
Summit came out strong to start the third quarter, immediately getting a shot on goal. After Fitzhenry was called for slashing, Summit scored and gained a 3–2 lead. WHS retaliated with shots from senior Jack Colwell and freshman Owen Colwell, but Summit maintained the lead for the rest of the quarter.
In the fourth quarter, Summit continued to dominate, starting by getting a shot right off the face-off. After taking a timeout, WHS began to play with more aggression. Summit took a penalty and, capitalizing on the opportunity, junior Dane Huber scored with less than five minutes left.
Summit brought the ball back downfield, but a save by Williamson helped WHS regain possession and return to the offensive. WHS had a few chances to tie it up in the final seconds of the game, but was unable to get the ball in the back of the net.
Said Coach Patrick Tuohy: “This game showed me and the team that we can play at a high level. However, competing isn’t good enough. We expect to win every game and we accept nothing but excellence.”