LocalSportsJournal.com
NORTON SHORES – The Mona Shores boys lacrosse team opened the season with a 16-8 loss against a tough Tier 1 East Grand Rapids squad on Saturday.
The Sailors were slated to take on Grandville before they canceled due to field conditions. Fortunately, EGR also had a cancellation and a crew of volunteers were able to help get the field back into order for game time.
“We were able to host the Pioneers thanks to a great effort by our administration and the help of our players, families and coaches who cleared the field of snow early Saturday morning,” said Mona Shores coach Murle Greer. “It was impressive to see our players and families come together to give us the opportunity to play.”
The last-minute matchup gave the Sailors no opportunity to prepare for their opponent and they quickly fell 5-0 after the first quarter of play. However, the Sailors managed to shake off some of the rust and were only outscored 11-8 over the last three quarters.
“This was our first live play of the season and EGR already had scrimmages and a game under their belt,” said Greer. “It took some time to adjust to live play versus practice.”
Ezra Carefelle led the Sailors with three goals and an assist, while Dylan Fett added a pair of goals. Jaedin Turner, Conner Osterhart and Cullen Conrad each netted a single score.
Goalkeepers Matt Tallman and Ben Warren combined for 11 saves.
“Overall, I am very happy with the way we played and am glad we were able to make this game happen,” Greer said. “We want to be playing teams like EGR as we know we will learn a lot from them and they will make us better going into conference play.”
Mona Shores (0-1) will be home on Monday against Tier 1 Grand Rapids Catholic Central.
