BROOKFIELD, CT — What a season it was for Masuk High’s girls lacrosse team. Being eliminated is never enjoyable but considering how far the Panthers went following the graduation of six starters from last year’s State Champion squad, it was a successful campaign for sure.
Masuk saw its chances of repeating end in a hard-fought 7-5 loss to Simsbury in Tuesday’s Class L State Tournament semifinals at neutral site Brookfield High. Masuk is the No. 4 seed and Simsbury the top seed in the bracket, and a squad that did not graduate any starters from last year’s runner-up lineup.
“I’m pleased. Obviously, I’d love to be playing Sunday but we exited with a quality showing,” Masuk Coach Rob Troesser said.
Simsbury will take on No. 2 Cheshire in Sunday’s title game.
“I think it was a well-played game for us defensively,” said Troesser, adding Simsbury found a way to cash in on enough chances whereas Masuk let a few offensive opportunities get away.
The Panthers trailed just 4-3 at the half. Simsbury struck early in the third and took a 6-3 lead into the fourth.
Masuk closed the gap with Devon Kreiner scoring less than a minute into the fourth, but Simsbury answered immediately off the ensuing draw.
Abby Troesser battled through Simsbury’s tough defense to score and make it a two-goal difference again, with 6:25 left. The Panthers got stops on D but could not get any closer.
Emma Troesser scored and Bailey Bajda found the net twice in the first half. Charlotte Pinto, Molly Kinahan and Eve Fernandez had assists in the game. Masuk goalie Maddy Farrer made 11 saves.
The Panthers will lose a large and talented contingent to graduation again this spring, but retains a wealth of talent and stands to make another deep playoff run next spring.
All respectful comments with the commenter’s first and last name are welcome.
