Blazers run through the Titans

May 12, Einstein-

The reporter was not able to attend the game. This story was based upon interviews.

The Blair Blazers girls' varsity lacrosse team was victorious in the first round of the county playoffs as they soundly defeated the Einstein Titans 11-5.

The Blazers were dominant throughout the game to defeat the Titans for the second time this season and advance to the second round of the playoffs against Walter Johnson. The Blazers came into the game having beaten the Titans 15-5 on April 6 and sporting a 4-8 record.

The Blazers had well-balanced scoring and solid defense to beat the Titans. Senior co-captain and junior Kiran Belani led the Blazers with three goals apiece from attack. Midfielders senior co-captain Lauren Finkel and junior Diana Frey each had two goals, while junior Maddie Driskil contributed a goal and several assists. Senior defender Vicky Dean also had an assist to Nowak and nearly scored after running the ball up from the defensive end.

Blair started the game running on all cylinders as they scored three quick goals on three possessions. Blair won the first three draws and scored off each possession. During the entire game the Blazers won a majority of the draws, something they have struggled with at times this season.

After the quick flurry of goals the Blazers settled down and controlled the ball. Einstein would counter with a goal to cut Blair's lead to 3-1. Blair was called for a defensive infraction giving Einstein an eight meters shot, which they scored on. However, Blair would respond and not let the Titans get any closer. The Blazers would score four more goals and go into half time up 7-3.

In the second half, the Blazers continued to dominate and didn't allow the Titans to stage a comeback. Blair scored four goals in the half, while the defense held Einstein to two goals.

The Blair defense was led by senior goalkeeper Betsy Costillo who played well in the cage along with senior defenders Christina Ji and Dean. Ji and Dean were both vital in clearing the ball and helping Blair improve on their transition game. Midfielders Driskill, Frey and Finkel also played well in the midfield and helped sturdy the offense and get possessions.

According to Nowak the Blazers were able to improve on weaknesses they had in past games. "After having trouble with our transition game, we got it together this game and clicked," said Nowak.

The Blazers will next take on Walter Johnson on Saturday, May 14 at 5:00 p.m. Walter Johnson will be a tough test for the Blazers, as WJ is one of the top teams in the county.