Tantasqua Holds off Westboro

By Joe Fantozzi (@joe_fantozzi35)

Westboro, Mass. - On Friday afternoon, the visiting Tantasqua Warriors defeated the host Westborough Rangers 11-7 in an early season CMass lax clash. 

Tantasqua goalie Michael Lucas held off Westboro with 14 saves, while senior captain Tom Muir led the Warrior offense, scoring five goals to help his team earn the victory. 

Muir punched his first shot through the back of net three minutes into the first period, giving Tantasqua the early advantage. Through the first twelve minutes, Tantasqua had the 2-0 lead thanks to Muir's second strike from the front of the net. Westborough was not able to capitalize on the numbers advantage, as they could not turn a late first period penalty into a goal for the Rangers. 

Tantasqua junior Sean Farland helped build on the early lead for the Warriors by scoring twice in the opening minute of play.  This stole any momentum on the field and allowed Tantasqua to get comfortable with an early 4-0 lead over the Rangers.

Jon Rodenbush was able to help the Rangers by scoring the first goal towards the end of the half, however, Tommy Muir had the play of the game after scoring on a contested shot, getting the slashing call just as the ball went into the goal and he hit the turf which tallied the score to 5-1. 

The Warriors built to their lead in the 3rd period by adding three more goals throughout the period, two of the scored goals occurred 40 seconds apart.  Tommy Muir and Junior Cody Robert were the two who scored, each getting in great position in front of the net. Westborough was giving enough space for the Warriors to run their offense and get comfortable attacking to the net. 

Towards the end, the Rangers tried making a final push for the win, scoring four of their seven goals in the final frame. The effort was evident, and the teamwork being displayed by the Rangers was something positive for Westboro to build on for the rest of the season. Looking at Tantasqua, the Warriors have confidence in themselves, and are proving to each other that they have a good team this season.

The next challenge for the Warriors will be squaring off against the Wachusett Regional Mountaineers. As for Westborough, they have plenty of time to prepare for their April 24th game at Algonquin against the Tomahawks in a classic rivalry game.