The Big Green traveled to Lakeville, CT to take on a talented and gritty Hotchkiss team. The two squads were well-matched, and the contest ebbed and flowed. The Bearcats played well in the first quarter of the game and mounted a 4 goal lead by performing well around the crease and feeding the 8 with precision. Though we made some uncharacteristic turnovers, the Deerfield girls kept battling and closed the gap to a two-goal deficit at the arrival of halftime. In the 2nd half, Deerfield began a slow and steady rally that culminated in a one-goal lead with 3 minutes remaining. In an exciting last minute of play, Hotchkiss was able to capitalize and tie the game with just seconds left.
In overtime, Hotchkiss was awarded the opening draw, but Margaret Williams made a great defensive play and returned the possession to Deerfield. Unfortunately, Taylor Coan – the next ball carrier – was fouled and suffered a painful injury. Lilly Berry entered the game and successfully moved the ball upfield to our low attacking unit. Ultimately, Mary Edmonds was able to find Bailey Cheetham open in the 8 for the game-winning goal. It was a great game, and both sides played hard all the way through.
After the game, Margaret Williams awarded her co-captain, Bailey, as the Play Tough Player of the game. Bailey was an integral component to the day’s victory as she tallied 3 goals, 4 assists, and came up with 3 draw control possessions. While the team celebrated Bailey’s play, Bailey piped up to claim that she had intended to award the PTPOG to Marge for always having everyone’s back and for coming up with major defensive plays all season that have changed the trajectory of our contests.