MONROE, Conn. — Coming off a pair of lopsided wins to begin the season, Masuk High’s girls lacrosse team had its first test, possibly its biggest of the season, and passed it in dramatic fashion. The Panthers came from behind and defeated visiting and two-time South-West Conference Champion New Fairfield 10-9 in an overtime thriller under the lights on Tuesday.
After Masuk got possession off the overtime-starting draw, Charlotte Pinto drew a foul and converted on a free position shot 49 seconds into the three-minute golden goal OT period.
Masuk saw the Rebels overcome a 7-4 deficit to take a 9-7 lead, before rallying with two late-game goals to force OT. Bailey Bajda made a series of moves to get free and found Pinto on the back door for a goal with 6:07 left.
The Panthers got possession off the ensuing draw and had a lengthy possession with multiple scoring opportunities, before Pinto fought off defenders to knot the score with 3:29 left.
Masuk’s defense held after the Rebels got the ball and stalled before playing for a final shot.
“Coming back, tying it and then taking the lead is big for our confidence — especially against the SWC champs from last year and the year before,” Masuk Coach Rob Troesser said.
Pinto was on a tear with seven goals, plus an assist, and Troesser was pleased to see her break through with a big night. Emma Troesser scored twice and got to three ground balls, along with a trio of draw controls. Bajda had a goal, two ground balls, three draw controls and forced a turnover. Clare Fulchino had three ground balls and draw control. Caroline Walsh logged two ground balls.
Masuk was coming off double-digit wins over New Milford and Weston to begin the season. The Panthers will try to keep it going Thursday when Joel Barlow visits at 6 p.m.
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