Lacrosse team posts first win of season in double overtime

The boys lacrosse team's first game of the season against North Eugene on Wednesday, March 15, was wild and crazy and went to double overtime before the Outlaws finally notched the 9-8 win.

The teams played in heavy rain off-and-on throughout the contest. The Outlaws played with determination and midway through the second half had built an 8-3 lead. Jude Kokesh-Carhart, Bennett Lewis, Gabe Patton, Ethan Morgan and Trey Stadeli all scored goals for the home team. Stadeli had three goals, including the eventual game-winner.

Sisters was bit short-handed at the start of the contest, and a few players had to come out of the game due to injuries. That allowed North Eugene to chip away at the Outlaws' lead and tie the score before the end of regulation play.

The game went to sudden death and there were several near misses from both squads before Stadeli put the winning score into the net.

Coach Paul Patton told The Nugget that one of the keys to the game was Casey Warburton's solid play as goalie, as well as the whole defensive unit of Sam Mitchell, Ethan Kennedy, and Matt Harris. The players on attack also did an excellent job. They controlled the ball and exploited what North Eugene's defense gave them.

Noah Keeton was a big part of the Outlaws' success. Keeton, although not 100 percent healthy, stepped up and played non-stop minutes due to other players being forced to the sidelines with injuries. Tyler Friend and Gabe Patton were also key players and won most of the face offs.

Two days later, Sisters posted a 14-7 home victory over West Albany.

Several players contributed in the team's scoring effort. Ethan Morgan scored five goals, and had two assists and seven ground balls. Bennett Lewis scored four goals and recorded one assists. Trey Stadeli scored two and had seven ground balls. Jude Kokesh-Carhart and Noah Keeton were steady at attack and each scored one goal.

Defensive players Matt Harris, Ethan Kennedy, and Sam Mitchell all played well. Harris led the squad with 10 ground balls. Gabe Patton won most of the face-off battles, and helped the Outlaws keep control of the ball. Cole Pade did an impressive job as the long stick midfielder and gave help on the defensive end, and Casey Warburton was solid in the goal.

"I am most pleased by the improvements we are making, and how we're coming together as a team," said Coach Patton.

The Outlaws travel to Ridgeview on Thursday, March 23, and play at home against Liberty on Friday.