Cougars Split Results: Boys LAX Falls at Monroe, Softball Explodes for Statement Win

Nicholas Mistretta

MHS ’79 Cougar Sports Correspondent

Boys Lacrosse: Second-Half Swing Lifts Monroe Past Montgomery

Montgomery saw a competitive first half unravel after intermission in an 11–7 loss to Monroe, as the Falcons used a dominant third quarter to seize control.

The Cougars (2-4) matched Monroe stride for stride early, opening the game with a 3–3 first quarter before taking a 6–3 lead into halftime behind a balanced offensive effort. But Monroe (4-1) responded decisively, erupting for six goals in the third quarter to flip the game and build a lead Montgomery could not recover from.

Senior Zach Mutton led the Cougars offensively with four goals, continuing to be a focal point of the attack. Patrick Petrozzini added two goals and two assists for a team-high four points, while Will Schwartz contributed three assists, helping orchestrate the offense during Montgomery’s strong first-half showing.

Colin Long added a goal and an assist and was active in transition with a team-high nine ground balls, while Miles Dawson battled at the faceoff X, winning two of nine attempts.

In goal, Xander Mancilla turned in a solid performance with 10 saves despite facing sustained pressure, particularly during Monroe’s decisive third-quarter run.

Monroe was powered by a balanced attack led by Jake Evanchick, who finished with four goals and three assists. The Falcons also controlled possession at critical moments, with Joseph Santangelo dominating faceoffs, winning 19 of 21 attempts.

Softball: Offensive Outburst Powers Montgomery Past Manville

On the diamond, Montgomery’s softball team delivered one of its most explosive performances of the season, overcoming an early deficit to defeat Manville, 16–6.

After falling behind 5–0 through the first two innings, the Cougars (7-2) responded with a stunning 10-run second inning that immediately turned the game around. The offensive surge set the tone for the remainder of the contest, as Montgomery continued to apply pressure and capitalize on opportunities.

The Cougars’ lineup produced 14 hits and 12 RBIs, with contributions throughout the order. Isabella Malek led the charge with a 3-for-4 performance, scoring four runs and driving in one, while Nicolette Shackelford added three hits, three runs, and two stolen bases.

Grace Gandolfo continued her strong stretch at the plate, going 2-for-4 with three RBIs, while Matilda Suh and Ryane Riddell each collected two hits and drove in runs. Maggie McGlynn added two RBIs, and Allison McKnight chipped in with a run-producing hit.

In the circle, Suh earned the win, allowing six runs (two earned) over six innings while striking out eight. Despite Manville’s early momentum, she settled in effectively after the second inning to limit further damage.

Montgomery also took advantage of defensive miscues, as Manville committed six errors, helping fuel the Cougars’ big innings.

Photo Credit: Nick Mistretta/headlinenewsmontgomry.com