On Apr. 20, the Coventry High School Boys Varsity Lacrosse team played its most complete game of the season earning the team's second victory and improving its record to 2-2.
The win over the first place Burrillville/North Smithfield Broncos also represents the first-ever Interscholastic victory for the Oakers on their home field at Coventry High School.
Coventry fell behind in the first few minutes of the game letting up two quick goals to the Broncos. However by the end of the first quarter Coventry found themselves leading the contest after skillful goals by Captain - Junior Attackmen Alex Izzi (three goals) and line-mate Junior Ethan Tryhubczak (four goals).
Once the Oakers gained the lead they played inspired and disciplined lacrosse under the leadership of Head Coach Herb DeSimone committing only two penalties the entire game.
They responded with a barrage of goals from Junior Captain - Midfielder Zack Allen, Caleb Carr (2 goals), Stryker Blue, and Austin DePietro. The Oakers also welcomed back Junior Midfielder Brian Skorski who had been sidelined since the start of the season due to an injury.
"This was a big win for us today. We passed better than we have all season and committed only two penalties, which were our biggest problems in the first three games," said Senior Captain Matt Lebrun.
"The two games we lost (Narragansett 6-5 and Tollgate 7-5) were by a total of only three goals" added Junior Captain Alex Izzi. "When we don't commit penalties, we play with confidence and that was the biggest difference today. I think we will look back at this game as a turning point for our team."
The Oakers' stingy defense was anchored by Senior Captain - Defensemen Matt Lebrun and supported by great play from fellow starting defensemen Sophomore Tristan Trautman and Freshmen Joe Foley whose combined efforts provided little room for the Broncos potent offense to establish any rhythm.
When the Broncos managed to get a shot off they found Senior Captain - Goalie Nick Mowry in position to stop all but four shots from reaching the back of the net. Mowry who suffered an awkward knee injury early in the game, played with courage and leadership throughout the entire contest which showed his teammates he was in it to win no matter what it takes. The Oakers squad followed his lead.
On the final Oakers goal, Senior Captain - Defensemen Lebrun capitalized on a Broncos turnover and advanced the ball nearly the entire length of the field before feeding a quick pass to Alex Izzi who finished the play by faking out the Broncos goalie and drilling the back of the net.
The final score was a 12-4 victory for the Oakers which moves them into 3rd place in Division III South. The Oakers look to maintain their momentum as they travel to Tiverton Wednesday, Apr. 25 to take on the Tiverton/Rogers High School co-op team.
