Cougars use balanced attack, strong second half to post 18-6 quarterfinal win

Nicholas Mistretta

MHS ’79 Cougar Sports Correspondent

MONTGOMERY — Montgomery kept its postseason run moving Monday, using a balanced offensive effort and a strong second-half push to defeat Manalapan, 18-6, in the quarterfinal round of the NJSIAA South Jersey, Group 4 girls lacrosse tournament.

The Cougars, now 14-4, took control early and steadily built on their lead throughout the game. Montgomery led 5-3 after the first quarter and widened the margin to 10-5 by halftime before outscoring Manalapan 8-1 over the final two quarters.

Elliana Pizzulli and Emma Scrudato each finished with six points to lead Montgomery’s attack. Pizzulli scored five goals and added one assist, while Scrudato had four goals and two assists. Kennedy Dexter also had a strong all-around offensive game with four goals and one assist, and Carson Benedict contributed three goals and one assist.

Montgomery generated consistent pressure throughout the game, putting 27 shots on goal. The Cougars also collected 12 ground balls and controlled the draw circle, finishing with 16 draw controls as a team.

Pizzulli had a team-high six draw controls, while Sophia Soron added five. Soron also scored once, and Lexi Sambol added one goal and one assist. Lexi Lopez chipped in two assists.

Montgomery’s defensive effort helped limit Manalapan to 13 shots on goal. In net, Elizabeth Andes made seven saves while allowing six goals.

Manalapan, which finished its season at 11-9, was led by Madison Alcantara, who scored four goals. Aryelle Stein added two goals for the Braves.

The win sends Montgomery into the next round of the South Jersey, Group 4 tournament as the Cougars continue their state playoff run.

Photo Credit: Nick Mistretta/headlinenewsmontgomry.com