By Avonlea Cummings
Hometown Weekly Sports Reporter
On Monday, April 8, the Dover-Sherborn girls' lacrosse team hosted the Medway High Mustangs, securing a 13-7 victory over Medway. Leading the team, Avery O'Connell netted six goals, closely followed by Kelly Devine, who pocketed four goals. Molly Malloy contributed two goals, and Ema Luczkow added another tally for the Raiders' final 13 points. The girls now carry an overall 4-1 season record and a 3-0 Tri-Valley League Small record.
In the first quarter, Medway struck first as DS's Avery O'Connell opened the draw against Medway's Olivia Melanson. Melanson gained control of the ball and fired down the field, swooping past the Raiders' defense and scoring a goal, giving Medway their only lead of the night 1-0. However, O'Connell quickly tied up the game for DS as she took a penalty shot and swiped the ball past Medway's goalie. O'Connell struck the net again during the Raiders' two-minute man-up time on the field, making the game 2-1. Medway spent the final few minutes of the first quarter in DS's zone, but the Raiders' defensive skillset denied any of the Mustangs' attempts on the net.
Dover-Sherborn continued to control offensively for the rest of the first half in the second quarter against Medway and finished off the half 8-4. O'Connell took charge of the Raiders' offense, scoring four out of the team's eight goals.
Just over halfway into the third quarter, both teams remained scoreless. However, Medway would break the silence of the third with a goal just under six minutes left to the quarter taking advantage of their man-up opportunity. Despite this, DS regained control when Kelly Devine fired her third goal of the game into the top right corner of the cage extending DS’ lead 9-5. Shortly after, Devine nailed another goal to the scoreboard 10-5 following a penalty call on Medway. The girls increased their momentum into the fourth quarter scoring three more goals, while allowing two more for the Mustangs. The Raiders sealed their victory 13- 7.
Coach Massimi shared the determination of her strong defense that led to the team’s overall success in the evening’s competition, noting how important fast breakaways are to the game.: “I think the first half overall was really due to our defense, making big stops. Medway did a good job of settling, coming up with draws, and holding possession and our defense really locked in. The two defenders that I gave quick nods to were Bridget Scannell and Marlee Austin due to their knockdowns, ground balls, starting the transitions, and pushing that fast break, we were really able to capitalize on,” said Massimi.
The girls continue their season on Friday, April 26, traveling to Ashland High. The game is set to start at 6 PM.
