BY GENE NARDI
The Wellington High School boys lacrosse squad hosted American Heritage for its second game of the season Thursday, Feb. 20, defeating the Stallions 11-6.
The Wolverines found themselves behind early 1-0, but the Stallions’ lead did not last. Wellington attackman Patrick Aporto found the back of the net with a behind-the-back strike to even the score at one. In less than four minutes, the Wolverines added three more goals to end the first period with a 4-1 lead.
Less than two minutes into the second period, Wellington attackman Jason D’Aoust added a fifth goal to extend the Wolverines’ lead to 5-1. Wellington was to be operating on all cylinders, but the Stallions would not go down without a fight. The Stallions battled back with two goals within a minute toward the end of the half to close it out 5-3.
Both teams started off the second half exchanging scores. Wellington’s Ryan Blum fired in a score, and Heritage attackman Thomas Oporto responded with a goal to make the score 6-4.
The Stallions continued to be a thorn for Wellington, clawing back and cutting the Wolverines’ lead to just one goal at 7-6. But the Stallions would not find the net again for the rest of the game. Wellington recharged its batteries, driving in four more goals to dominate the fourth period and take the 11-6 win.
“We’re trying to work on being patient, waiting for the goal to come to us, and not go after the goal,” WHS coach Joe Calby said. “I’m always happy with our defense. They play aggressively and make great checks. They help our offense with possession.”
Top performers were Patrick Oporto with three goals and four assists. Jason D’Aoust scored three goals and had two assists. Kevin Burch scored two goals, and Ryan Blum is credited with a goal.
Wellington played Suncoast High School on Friday, Feb. 21 and defeated the Chargers 15-4 to remain undefeated at 3-0 on the season. The Wolverines have scored a total of 37 goals in three games.
Wellington traveled to Pinecrest High School and hosted Park Vista High Schools this week, but results were not available at press time.
ABOVE: Wellington’s Tyler Somers wins the ball during a face-off.
