Returning home from spring break just a few days before, the girls varsity lacrosse team was forced to slide right into its first big conference game against the Rockford Rams on Wednesday, April 14. Coming up short on the day, the girls ended up losing to Rockford by a score of 18-6.

Rockford’s girls lacrosse team is no doubt one of the fiercest competitors in the state. Every season they are a favorite to make it to the state title game. Not only do they make it there consistently, but they also usually cash in on the opportunity. The eight-time state champions (seven in a row from 2013-2018) took care of business against the Rangers by dominating every inch of the field.

Despite losing by 12 goals, the Rangers still have many positives to take away from the game. If nothing else, this game proved that the girls can hang with the best teams if they stick to the game plan. 

“It was the little mistakes that got us beat that we need to clean up as we continue the season,” head coach Zoe Mamo emphasized. “I do think the game was a good eye-opener that we are able to play competitively with the top teams in our conference if we continue to remain focused on the small things and keep up the intensity throughout the rest of the season.”

As a result of the Rangers’ turnovers, the Rams controlled the ball for much of the game and didn’t allow FHC to methodically set up their offense. Uncharacteristic mistakes for the Rangers such as passing and catching led to transition goals for the Rams. 

On the offensive side, junior Julia Brown scored three goals for the Rangers, giving her a hat trick. Sophomores Shannon Murphy, Delaney Smith, and Gabby Hendricks accounted for the remaining three goals. 

Miscommunications between the Rangers on defense resulted in some easy goals for Rockford, and the Rams were able to capitalize on hitting the cutter near the crease for an open look on multiple occasions. 

“Hopefully we can clean up some of the little things and be ready to give them a better game the next time we see them,” said junior Sophie Hartl.

Next up on the docket, the girls will host the Caledonia Fighting Scots on Friday, April 16th.