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New Canaan Suffers First Lacrosse Loss in Conference Semis

NEW CANAAN, Conn. – For the first 15 minutes of Monday’s rain-soaked girls lacrosse conference semifinal, scoring was at a premium between archrivals Darien and New Canaan. But the Blue Wave could only be contained for so long, exploding for six goals in the final 10 minutes of the first half to put the game out of reach.

New Canaan was dealt its first loss of the season, 15-9, and was bounced from the conference playoffs.

The Rams’ vaunted offense never got rolling, despite playing at home. Leading scorers Sarah Mannelly and Olivia Hompe were held in check by Darien, limited to a combined three goals. For a duo used to combining for at least 10 goals, it was a crushing blow.

Brynn Gasparino with five goals and Taylor Hardison with four were an offensive force for Darien. Hardison capped off Darien’s frenzied first half with a goal with one second remaining to put the Blue Wave up 7-3 at the half. Darien extended its lead to 10-3 before New Canaan answered.

Kristine Ryan lead New Canaan’s offense with three goals. Brianna McEwan, Carolina Lizzio and Lily Citrin rounded out New Canaan’s scoring.

The Rams will be the top-ranked team in the Class M state tournament when it begins next week.

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