Boys Lacrosse has had a tough start to the season, most recently seeing a close, 8-7 loss to Morris Knolls on Wednesday, April 9. This brings the Rams’ early record to 0-5.

At last Wednesday’s game, the Rams fought hard against their Golden Eagles rival, keeping the score close, with senior co-captain Vincent Tallman and sophomore Everett Palumbo earning two goals each.

“Rival games bring extra intensity and energy,” senior Ryan Potanovich said. “As a senior and someone who has played in many different types of games, I know part of my job is to make sure the defense stays composed.”

The team also saw help from sophomores Ryan Barnett and Anthony Santoro, both leading the way with one and two assists respectively. Assists are crucial and require good team chemistry and communication on the field. The Rams did well at making them, keeping the score close throughout the game.

“When we are behind in the game, we try to focus on the next play and not worry about the mistakes,” Palumbo said.

Later in the game, the Rams continued to fight their rival, with more goals from Barnett and senior co-captain Elliot McClendon. Junior Mark Manolis also saw the field, earning two assists on the goals.

Goalies Matthew DeVos and Potanovich put in the needed work to keep the score close throughout the game. “As a goalie, I know momentum can change fast, especially in close games,” Potanovich said. “I focus on staying calm and making the next save that I need to make.”

In the end, Morris Knolls’ power was just too strong, and the Rams’ strong effort was not enough to get the win for the team.

Team spirit remained strong, however, as the boys “plan to bounce back by continuing to work hard and focus more on the future than the past games,” Palumbo said.

“I always try to make sure we don’t get caught up in anything outside of the game of lacrosse and we can play our game and stay disciplined,” Potanovich said.