Tourney runs cuts short for CHS lax teams
By Jay Turner
The Bulldogs had a lot to be proud of this season. (Mike Tureski photo)
The opening round of the MIAA state tournament did not go as planned for either of Canton High’s lacrosse teams.
Competing on the same day in road matchups against higher seeded opponents, both the boys and girls teams suffered similar fates, losing by 10 goals and getting bounced from the Division 2 playoffs.
The 21st ranked boys team, coming off a 12-6 finish in the regular season, drew a familiar foe in No. 12 Sharon but were unable to recreate the magic of their previous game against the Eagles — a 9-8, triple overtime win for Canton.
While they played each other even in the first quarter, Sharon would seize the lead with a four-goal outburst early in the second period and never let up from there, winning 15-5 to advance to the Sweet 16.
Senior goalie Pat Drury was busy in net and tallied 15 saves in the losing effort, while sophomore Cullen O’Brien paced the offense with three goals and one assist. Dillon Albert and Colin Blake each chipped in a goal for the Bulldogs and Brendan Tourgee had a pair of assists.
“It was a tough day for us and Sharon outplayed us, so it was definitely disappointing,” said head coach Tommy Galvin. “However, we had a great year and there is lots to be proud of and build upon. We are a young team and excited for the future. I’m thankful for all the seniors for everything they’ve given to this program.”
Girls head coach Kelly McGowan had a similar take after the Bulldogs’ 16-6 loss to ninth-seeded Burlington last week.
“It was a pleasure to coach this amazing group this spring,” noted McGowan. “We had a rough start, but the girls worked really hard each day and they came together as a team. I’m really glad I got to spend the spring season with these players and my assistant coaches, Chrissy O’Connor and Jess Powers.”
Although clear underdogs in their matchup with the Red Devils, the Bulldogs gave it their all and battled to the end, led by senior Devan Spinale and sophomore Nora Giannacopoulos, who netted two goals apiece. Canton also got goals from sophomore Kayleigh Koen and freshman Nora McLean, and junior Izzy Digirolamo was credited with an assist.
Despite the loss, the girls still finished with a winning record (10-9) and played some of their best lacrosse towards the end of the spring. “We improved over the season and I’m looking forward to watching what this group can do next season,” said McGowan.
Short URL: https://www.thecantoncitizen.com/?p=124996
Posted by Jay Turner
on Jun 8 2024. Filed under High School, Sports.
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