Fox Chapel girls lacrosse coach Kellee Cribby wants to see the team strengthen throughout the season like a muscle. The Foxes have been battling serious atrophy due to battles with Mother Nature throughout the season.
It’s hard to build strength when you can’t get on the field.
Fox Chapel beat Butler, 14-4, last Wednesday night on the road, which was only its fifth game of the season. The Foxes (3-2) had one game against Bethel Park fall off the schedule because of issues with the stadium lights.
Fox Chapel also had a game with Canon-McMillan canceled due to the snow and another matchup with Upper St. Clair postponed.
In April, the Foxes have played two matches thus far, the win over Butler and a 14-2 win over Moon.
“When you add in the elements, it’s been hard to get into the groove,” Cribby said. “Usually, we find our rhythm before spring break and get right back into it.”
Caroline Leland scored six goals against the Golden Tornado to bring her career total to 94. Caroline Grimsley, who had two goals and six assists against Butler, reached 200 career points.
Hope Pekarcik anchors the defense for the Foxes.
“We have great senior leaders,” Cribby said. “They are a motivated group.”
Against Butler, Cribby said she was looking to see the team be patient on offense. Following a long break in play, she didn’t want the team to settle on offense.
“I want to see them break down the opponent on the attack,” Cribby said. “I didn’t want them to take the first opportunity because they were anxious.”
The Foxes had Grace Patel and Alice McLeland also score twice against Butler. Zehra Ozkaya, McKayla O’Leary and Liv Napolitan also scored for Fox Chapel.
Lydia DeMotte made three saves in net.
“Our defense is strong,” Cribby said. “They have been playing this system for two or three years. They are comfortable and are able to give our middies a break.”