Harwood lacrosse finally suited up for their first game, after multiple cancellations, against Green Mountain Valley School (GMVS).
Although the Harwood Highlanders kept the game close throughout the afternoon, even gaining the lead in the fourth quarter, they were unable to finish the deal and they lost 10-9.
GMVS maintained a two-goal lead throughout three quarters of play. However, just before the final break, Harwood tied it up at 7-7, giving the Highlanders momentum for the final quarter.
The Highlanders were able to get the next goal as well, giving them a faint lead, but they were unable to hold it for long. GMVS was able to get the ball to their best players and they powered through a tired Harwood defense.
Harwood coach Russ Beilke said that Harwood played without six of its players. In each timeout, Harwood’s top lines were stretching and doing everything possible to catch their breath before having to back out again.
Most of the players were missing due to vacation. Thankfully, one of the Highlanders’ most important and most effective players was present on Monday. Goalie Cameron Andrews made save after save as GMVS attackmen were able to shoot from the top of the crease. He was just one save short of saving the day.
“First games over with, I told the boys on the way over. We started in the gym; we got outside just a little bit. Now we can start having fun. The season has started,” Beilke said.
The Highlanders’ next game is at home against Burlington on Wednesday as The Valley Reporter goes to press.
