Crusaders Lacrosse: Boys Bow to Shrewsbury, Girls Qualify for Districts

It was an opportunity to see if GD boys lacrosse could play with one of the elite teams in Midland A. But Shrewsbury (13-4) having lost their last three in a row, each by one goal, was not about to cooperate and defeated the Crusaders, 8-2. Joe Budeo led the Colonials' offense with four goals.

It was a good start for GD when Ryan Heinser won the draw and possession for the Crusaders (7-7). Fifty-three seconds later, Nick Irby made a smooth pass to Zach Cotoni and the junior attack beat Colonials keeper Chris Gorman.

Two goals by Joe Budeo and a third from John Companale had the visiting Colonials ahead 3-1 at the end of the first quarter.

Tristan Lynch (assist: Nick Irby) closed the gap to 3-2 on a high shot that Gorman never had a chance on. But two more goals, one by Budeo, made it 4-2. Derric Dell'olio's goal with under two minutes remaining made the score 5-2 at the half.

Winning the face off after a goal is scored or starting a quarter is critical. Shrewsbury had the upper hand winning 12 draws to five for GD. Shrewsbury's defense, including keeper Chris Gorman, stymied the Crusaders in the third and fourth quarters. If GD managed a quality shot, the Colonials keeper (11 saves) was ready. It was a very solid defensive effort by the visitors.

Editor's note:  Congratulations to the GD girls' lacrosse team (10-5) who qualified for Districts. "Very exciting," shared first year coach, Sarah Valacer.

The icing on the cake was a 15-13 upset win over Shrewsbury (12-4, 8-2).) Tuesday night. "Maria Antonellis (14 saves) was amazing game, as always," said Valacer. Livy Penney (3 goals) "These were big, important goals to kick start the game," continued Valacer. Shelly Herlihy played an outstanding game on defense.Liv Rubeski (5 goals, 3 assists), Nicki Wilkinson (4 goals),  "The seniors really proved and showed how the underclassmen should be playing. Great role models," added Valacer.