Franklin defensemen David Cutair looks to pass the ball as Hereford closes in during Tuesday's evening matchup in Parkton. The Bulls shut down the Indians in the final quarter en route to an 11-8 decision.
If Tuesday’s evening Franklin High-Hereford boys’ lacrosse game is any indication, the Baltimore County Division I West race will be a wild one.
After forfeiting five unanswered Franklin goals late in the third quarter to fall behind by one score, the Bulls responded with four straight goals of their own while shutting down the Indians offense in the fourth quarter for an 11-8, in front of a lively crowd in Parkton.
Senior Billy Stafford scored three goals for Hereford (6-1, 1-0) while senior Ryan Rock added two scores and two assists. Michael Higgins netted four goals, all coming in the third quarter for Franklin (5-2, 0-1).
“It’s great to come back from our loss at home Friday against Dulaney and show people what we’re made of,” said Stafford. “Since people look to us as a pretty good team, it’s especially nice to know we can come back after being up, then down, and end up on top.”
Leading 4-3 at the half, the Bulls came out of the third quarter firing, scoring three goals in the first three minutes to stretch the score to 7-3. After a goalie switch and several unsuccessful possessions, Franklin appeared completely deflated.
Matt Polashuk put a shot from the left side of the crease past goalie Ty Wittelsberger for his only score of the game, giving the Indians a needed boost. Higgins followed with four consecutive goals in just over four minutes to suddenly push Franklin into the lead.
“When you play defense like we do that sort of scoring can happen,” said Hereford coach Carl Runk. “We double a lot and that leaves someone open and they were able to find him [Higgins] and he put it in the cage for them.”
Rock’s goal with 10 minutes, 22 seconds remaining in regulation pulled the Bulls even. They gained for the lead for good with just over five minutes left when Trey Hilberg’s shot found the net to give Hereford the advantage.
Reiley Crosby’s score with 2:34 left and a tally from Joe Stone in the final minute ensured Hereford drawing the early advantage in the league race. The Bulls held Franklin to zero shot opportunities in the final quarter.
“This Franklin team gave us all we could handle tonight. They are a good lacrosse team and we really had to dig down to get a couple of goals because nothing came easy today,” said Runk. “I’m pleased with the attitude of our youngsters. They stayed right in there when we were down 8-7. I’m proud of the kids and everyday they continue to improve.”
Hereford 11, Franklin 8Goals: F – Polashuk 1, Higgins 4, Burcik 2, Hollander 1. H – Stafford 3, Rock 2, Hilberg 2, Crosby 2, Stone 1, Bishop 1.
Assists: F – Nowicki 3. H – Rock 2, Hilberg 1, Wacker 1, Bryant 1, Niles 1.
Saves: F – Clements 3, Cornbratt 4. H – Wittelsberger 10.
Half: Hereford 4, Franklin 3.