The Naperville North boys varsity lacrosse team put up a tough fight, but fell in a close game against Benet Academy.

The Huskies (6-2) were defeated at home by the Redwings by a final score of 10-8 Monday night.

The game got off to an aggressive start with both teams scoring within the first three minutes. The Huskies managed to compete against the Redwings with smart communication and quick passes throughout the first half. Despite a high penalty game, the first half ended tied 5-5. Senior Jacob Lubrant boosted the team with an assist and a goal.

“It was close, it was back and forth the entire time so I think we just kept being confident and trusting one another,” Lubrant said. 

In the second half the team struggled to keep the ball away from their net. Junior Gavin Merriman notes that although the team lost some key senior players he still believes this team has many strengths. 

“Last season we were better equipped on defense. We had bigger people but I still feel like we are doing great. We have good energy and we have a great team this year so I’m excited for the rest of the season,” Merriman said. 

Various penalties put the Huskies at disadvantages at crucial points during the game. Despite having less players on the field after numerous penalties, Head Coach Kevin Benages believes that the defense was able to prevent Benet from taking advantage of the Huskies being short-handed. 

“Being man down is not a situation that you want to be in because the chances now kind of sway in their (the other team’s) favor with an opportunity to score. The defensive unit communicated, put down some passes, and came out on the victorious side of that.”

As the season is nearing its end, the seniors are experiencing their final games as a Huskie. Lubrant expresses his appreciation for lacrosse, especially given the previous season was stripped due to the pandemic. 

“It’s definitely sad. I’ve been around in the program for a long time, I’ve been coming here since I was about eight, so it’s a little sad that I’ll be away from it, but it definitely feels good to be back out here after not having the season last year,” Lubrant said. 

The Huskies will continue their season on Wednesday night at 7:00 P.M. against Neuqua Valley.