Everybody knows the feeling, the rush of blood, the surge of adrenaline, and the nail-biting tension of a game that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. It’s the kind of match where the score stays tight, unpredictable, and every play matters.
In moments like these, the question becomes clear: which team will unify together as one, find its focus, and rise above the other with unwavering determination?
On April 11th, that team was Westfield State.
In games like this, it isn’t just about skill. It’s about staying composed under pressure, executing in the biggest moments, and refusing to waver when the outcome is still up for grabs.
Westfield State women’s lacrosse faced Bridgewater University on Alumni Field in their first MASCAC conference matchup, emerging victorious in a hard-fought, back-and-forth battle, 10–8.
The buzz of excitement hummed loudly within the first minutes of the game after Mercedes Rozzi scored within the first three game minutes.
“Scoring first is always nice,” said Varsity Head Coach, Jeff Pechilis. “The quick goal by Merc really got the team fired up. Bridgewater is a tough, emotion-driven opponent. Jumping out with early momentum set the tone for the rest of the game.”
Christina Roncarati increased the Owl’s lead, finding a perfect cut into the middle and taking advantage of the open space and ending the first period 2 – 0.
However, the Bridgewater Bears began to crawl back at the beginning of the second period off of a free position shot. The teams fought back and forth. Westfield. Bridgewater. Westfield. Bridgewater. The chime of the ball hitting the back of the net ringing out swiftly at each goal. Roncarati lets the ball fly once more, earning her 40th career point for the season.
“Hitting 40 goals so far is definitely an accomplishment for me, but it really shows how well our offense works as a unit. A lot of those goals come from assists, screens, and teammates putting me in the right spots. I’m proud of the number, but I’m even happier that it’s helped us be successful as a team and puts us in a good position for the rest of the season.” Roncarati stated post-game.
The second period ended 6 – 3, Westfield up. And as the third period began, the pattern continued. Free position shots for Westfield, lucky openings for Bridgewater, and cheers bounced from booths sides of the metal stands.
With 23 seconds ticking down on the field clock, and the score resting at 9 – 7, Bridgewater offensive player, Taylor Carter, sprinted swiftly down the field, ball pocketed comfortably in her net, with a determined swiftness. With a sharp pass to Bridgewater offensive player, Kate Fitzpatrick, the goal was finished with grace. Raising the score, along with Bear spirit.
Tensions are high as the fourth period begins. Who will make it on top?
The game plan that Pechilis offered to the team going into the last period was “Grabbing and holding onto the lead was a challenge that we fully expected. As the game continued, the gameplan was to play smart and be aggressive.”
As the clock ticks down to crown the winner. There was an ounce of hope for the Bears when Bridgewater offensive player, Erin Henn, scooped up the ball and took a shot on goal. However, a ding echoed amongst the field. She hit the goal post, missing the chance to nearly tie the score.
Marina Morales, Westfield’s speedster, held onto the ball within the last few seconds while desperate groups of Bridgewater players ran after her.
The game ends 10 – 8, a win for the Westfield Owls.
The Westfield State Owls will face Amherst College in their next game and Bridgewater University will go against Mass Maritime, both teams playing on Tuesday, April 14th.
After the game, Pechilis stated, “We’ve been tested with some close games this year, but nothing compares to a win or a home playoff game . . . They definitely love being together, so I wouldn’t be surprised if they do all they can to keep this train rolling to trophy town! Go OWLS!”
