Boys lacrosse loses two tough games

The Outlaws gave it everything they had, but lost their battles with two top-notch teams this past week. Sisters fell 13-9 at home to Liberty on Friday, March 21, and the following day were defeated 12-6 by Glencoe.

On Friday, Sisters opened against a deep and well-coached Liberty team. The Outlaws gave up five goals before they were able to settle down and adjust to Liberty's speed and athleticism. Sisters outplayed Liberty the remainder of the game, but the five-goal deficit was too much to make up.

In the first half, the Outlaws only won three of 13 faceoffs, but in the second half they earned five of the seven.

Coach Bill Rexford said, "Those faceoffs in the second half were hard-fought hustle wins. The guys really fought back. If we would have played with the same intensity in the first half that we did in the second it could have been a different outcome."

Porter Ford led the Outlaws with two goals, and the rest were spread evenly throughout the team.

"Porter is playing at a level that is truly incredible," said Rexford. "He was able to take the ball at will from two very good attackmen."

Rexford noted several other players for their contributions.

"Devin Slaughter and Gary Jacques are doing a great job as sophomores on defense, and they are going to rise up," said Rexford. "Our defense is going to be our strength."

On Saturday, the Outlaws faced Glencoe and played tough for three quarters, but then ran out of gas. Sisters was down three starters and many of the younger players had to swing down to JV due to grade problems, illness or injury.

The 14 Outlaws players couldn't keep pace with Glencoe's deep 23-man roster.

"This is not a recipe for success if we are going to compete with the best teams in the state," stated Rexford. "What I like about being an Outlaw is that we need every player, and every player must put the team first in order for this to work. This is easier said than done, but I trust the boys will figure it out before the season is over.

"If we played only 4A schools this would not be an issue, but we don't, so we need the boys to rise up to the challenge and commit fully to the team," added Rexford.

Despite the losses, Rexford is optimistic.

"Though 0-2 I am very optimistic. This little team showed they can compete and get better with each minute on the field. Porter Ford and Spencer Smith led the defense and were vicious. Jens Stadeli led the midfield and already has scores of groundballs and four goals. The senior attack of Zach Valoppi, Josh Ward, and Scott Nelson showed they could not only protect the ball but also attack the cage. This little team has all the ingredients to be a great one. We need to come together as a team by putting aside the distractions and look at each game not only as a chance to compete but to learn as well."

The Outlaws will take a week off for spring break and then be back on the field Wednesday, April 2, at Redmond. On Friday, April 4, Sisters will play at home against McNary and they will wrap up their week on the road against Sherwood on Saturday.