By Caroline Barry
Sports Reporter
On Sunday, the Newton South Boys’ lacrosse team lost to crosstown rival Newton North at Fessenden under the lights 15-5 in a hard fought game. Despite the ten goal loss, the Lions put up a strong fight throughout the game consisting of hard work and determination.
South came out strong with outstanding passing initiated by junior Gus Korsh and kept this consistency throughout the entire first quarter.
The Lions had a tough start of the 2nd quarter as North took a 4-0 lead. But, that didn’t fade any motivation from the Lions. Junior Ilan Hascal had two of his three goals in the first half of the game. Hascal’s three goals were a season high.
“Ilan had a great game,” said sophomore Mac Barnes. “He took no hesitation with all of his shots and he’s been putting in a lot more effort in practices.”
Not only did the Lions keep up with their fast paced game, but they stayed forceful when the ball was played in their half. This was lead by determination and hard work from defenders senior captain Jake Boll and sophomore Marco Mercurio. Both Boll and Mercurio took hard hits but weren’t phased and showed no fatigue throughout the game.
By the 3rd quarter, the Lions came back with a 10-5 score and kept the uptempo while Hascal scored his 3rd goal at the end of the quarter.
His motivation was shown throughout the twelve minutes as he played until the whistle was blown. Hascal was nominated as player of the day by the North varsity coach Bussy Adams.
However, as the game progressed the Lions could not stifle the Tiger’s attack. Their combination of size and skill added up to fifteen Tiger’ goals.
The lions ended their season this Monday against Natick. Despite a losing record, the boys’ lacrosse team should not go unnoticed. The team had low expectations going into the season as they play in an incredibly tough conference.
The Lions’ fought hard all season to earn some eye opening wins against Belmont and Cambridge.
Although they didn’t qualify for the state tournament, the team has high hopes going into next season. A strong group of players such as sophomore standout Jack Briney, along with Mercuio, Hascal, and a promising young goalie in freshmen Ben Powdermaker, should make South a strong team next year.
