About a month ago, the Rye Girls Varsity Lacrosse Team didn’t look poised for a successful playoff run. The team had to overcome some very tough games and multiple injuries but is now defying all expectations. On Monday, May 20, the team beat Tappan Zee to clinch a spot in the Section 1 Championship Game. The game, which Rye won 10-9, was a nailbiter to the last second.

Tappan Zee had an early boost of energy after winning the first draw and quickly finding the back of the net. After getting off on the wrong foot, Rye regained some momentum and fired back with six goals, including one in the last seconds of the half that gave them the lead. They headed into the second half with a one-goal lead over Tappan Zee.

In the second half, the reality hit that both teams were facing elimination, and the intensity grew. Heavy rain briefly paused the game, but the girls immediately continued playing after it ceased. Tappan Zee scored three back-to-back goals to close the score gap, but Rye wasn’t done. Within the last five minutes of the game, Catherine Egan scored what would be the game-winning goal for Rye. Tappan Zee almost scored after gaining the ball back on a penalty, but their attempts were unsuccessful. After 50 stressful minutes, Rye came out on top with a final score of 10-9; only one goal determined which team would move on to the Section 1 finals.

After the game, Catherine Egan had much to say about Rye’s win and Tappan Zee’s effort. She said, “It felt good to get ahead with the final goal, but I was very nervous because Tappan Zee still had time to get another goal and tie it again. Overall, I think we played well and got a really good team win.” The team will play in the Section 1 Championship Game on Thursday at Fox Lane High School. Let’s go Rye!