By Bond Brungard
The boys’ lacrosse teams from Highland and Wallkill entered their game Thursday in Marlboro both undefeated at 2-0, but Highland made an early statement by taking a 2-0 at the end of the first quarter.
Highland would continue to hammer that point as the defending Section 9 Class B champion before winning 8-2.
Chris Hammond and Mike Caso scored those goals in the first quarter. Hammond would score another pair to lead the Huskies with three goals. Highland spread the ball around offensively, picking up goals from Jack Young, Christian Canino, Ethan Esposito and Jake Ward. Lenny Casabura had six saves for Highland.
“Offensively, we made a couple of mistakes, however, we did a nice job of controlling the ball and playing unselfishly,” said Tom Schlappich, Highland’s coach. “We remained patient and stayed inside the offense.”
Alex Lewis and Chad Castle scored for Wallkill, and their goals came in the third quarter. Dylan Jowell had nine saves for the Panthers.
“Wallkill is an up and coming team,” said Schlappich. “They are well coached and have some talented boys.”
Wallkill entered the game with a season opening victory against Washingtonville. Early last week, before facing Highland, the Panthers stopped Pine Bush.
“We wanted a low scoring game and the game plan worked, except we didn’t finish those long possessions with goals,” said Alex Danon, Wallkill’s coach, “and a lot of credit goes to Highland for that.”
Highland improved to 3-0, and Wallkill dropped to 2-1.