This past Wednesday (Oct. 22) the Morris Knolls Field Hockey Team (13-1-1) arrived at Mountain Lakes High School, ready to take on the number four seed. Being seeded fifth, the girls were seen as the underdogs. However, that did not stop them from coming out strong from the first whistle, and using relentless grit to outhustle their opponents. 

Within the first quarter, Right Forward Elizabeth Boyle sent the ball into the circle to put the team into scoring position. Left Forward Madelyn Barchetto received the pass, and sent the ball to teammate Mackenzie Comprelli, who finished the seamless sequence. The eagles celebrated their lead, running to Comprelli with excitement. Freshman Delaney Robbins described her feelings after the go-ahead goal excitedly stating, “I was so overjoyed to see my teammates score, especially with the skilled goalie they were up against.” 

Despite the pressure and tight matchup, the girls kept dominating the game in all aspects. Not only was it the team’s talented skills that helped secure the win, but it was also their undeniable intensity. 

Defensively, the team communicated efficiently, and played with control. From an offensive standpoint, the Golden Eagles saw open lanes, and worked as a unit to keep the ball in Mountain Lake’s circle. 

It’s not just the energy on the field that keeps the eagles soaring, it’s the environment from the sidelines and stands that builds adrenaline for the girls. Freshman goalie, Hannah Rebecky, explained the sideline view from such an intense game, saying “Everyone was jumping up and down and then stormed the sidelines. I don’t know how to put it into words, but it gave me motivation to continue the season.” 

Though coming into the game as underdogs, the girls knew what was on the line. Refusing to lose, they kept their determination until the final buzzer went off. Not only did the team believe they could be victorious, but so did the fans who have watched the eagles work hard and continuously improve their record. Junior Elias Aboushanab, a regular attendee at the games stated, “It’s a very good team community. You guys all lift each other up, and there is a la pasión.” 

With an intimidating season so far, the Golden Eagles will bring their energy and take on top seeded Madison this Saturday, October 25th at Boonton High School for the Semi Final Round of the County Tournament, the furthest they have gone in 20 years.