Even for a side accustomed to challenges, the obstacles for the Cazenovia girls lacrosse team were large in a literal and figurative sense, from tough opponents to tough weather.
In between all of the April snowflakes, the Lakers played twice last week, starting with last Tuesday’s visit to Liverpool, where it never could get going against a potent Warriors side that beat them by a score of 17-5.
It was 10-2 by halftime, Liverpool led by the trio of Bella Brancato, Abby Hope and Brittany Halpin, who each scored four times as Brancato contributed three assists.
Ultimately, Chloe Willard would net a trio of goals for the Lakers, with Emmie Dolbear and Grace Rajkowski also finding the net. Laura Lorraine finished with five saves.
Yet another tough test came on Saturday against reigning state Class D champion Skaneateles, the game moved from Cazenovia College’s Christakos Field (cleared of snow, but still icy) to Hyatt Stadium, the home turf of those other Lakers.
The change in venue was far less important than the quality of the opposition, though.
Cazenovia fell to Skaneateles 15-2, both of the goals coming in the second half by Willard and Mikaylee Whalen – but only after the hosts raced out to a 10-0 halftime lead.
Lorraine picked up eight saves, but had her most trouble with Skaneateles forward Riley Brogan, who poured in six goals and one assist as Grace Dower added three goals and one assist.
Cazenovia would look to break its skid on Tuesday against Tully before Marcellus visited on Saturday.
