On Thursday, April 24 the Archie Williams girls varsity lacrosse team (1-7) faced off against Novato High School (2-6) in a close matchup. The game took place on the Falcons’ home field starting late in the afternoon. While the Falcons were in the lead for the first half, they ultimately fell short, losing 17-18 to the Hornets.

Early into the match, Novato displayed their capabilities on the field, scoring two early goals. Archie Williams came back fighting with some goals of their own, as Sophomore Olive Diamond and junior Ellen Winter each scored to keep the Falcons competitive. The first quarter ended with a score of 5-3, in the Falcons’ favor. 

The fast pace continued into the second quarter, with both teams exchanging offensive opportunities. Archie Williams bumped up their score with a goal from sophomore Ainsley Sullivan, plus additional ones from Ellen and Olive. Head coach Ted Hellman highlights Ainsley’s contribution in creating opportunities for the team.

“The clear stand-out performance today was put in by Ainsley Sullivan with six goals and who dominated on ground balls and defense. Ainsley is one of the toughest kids and most talented athletes I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing,” Hellman said.

Archie Williams freshman, Maddy Dombrowsky, made her debut as varsity goalkeeper for the Falcons, defending against the Hornets’ attacks Hellman emphasizes Maddy’s important role in the second half.

“Maddy Dombrosky is a first-year lacrosse player playing the most difficult position on the field and really came through for us with critical saves [during the second half], notching over ten saves in her first full varsity contest,” Hellman said.

The third quarter started rough for Archie Williams, mainly due to them conceding five times early into the quarter, making it 9-14, leading to a temporary Novato takeover. Defense was lacking in some areas, but the Falcons made the comeback needed to keep them in the game with five consecutive goals, tying the score 14-14.

The fourth quarter was no different from the rest; it continued to stay close until the end, in which a game winner was nearly scored by Ainsley, and the game ended with a score of 17-18. 

“[Ainsley] really put all of her effort and energy into it, and without her it would not even have been a close game,” said junior defensive player Eleanor Kernodle. 

Despite losing, this was one of their closest games this season. Hellman emphasizes the progress they’ve made.

“This season has been tough. We have a young team and we play in a very competitive league. I would have loved for us to pull out a win today but, sadly, we came up a bit short,” Hellman said.

The Falcons’ next game is against St. Vincent de Paul High School at home, April 28, at 5:30 p.m.