Pierson-Bridgehampton Season Ends in Defeat

CICERO – Pierson-Bridgehampton's magical playoff run ended in tears and sadness as Cazenovia defeated the Whalers, 1-0, in overtime in the Class C state field hockey final Saturday at Cicero-North Syracuse High School.

The Whalers, led by the outstanding play of goalie Catherine Musnicki, battled the Lakers to a scoreless tie for 60 minutes to force overtime. But the Lakers finally punctured the defense and the Whalers title hopes with a goal five minutes into overtime.

Jillian Vogl knocked in the game-winner for the Lakers, who came into the game averaging five goals per game. It was Cazenovia's first-ever state championship.

"That last play, they were just passing it around me and someone was on post," Musnicki said. "It was a good shot, I'm not going to lie."

As the Lakers celebrated at the 10-yard line, Pierson players initially stood in disbelief before walking to their bench in tears. Supportive Pierson fans rose to their feet and applauded the Whalers effort as players headed off the field.

Musnicki did her part to keep the Lakers off the scoreboard. She came up with several clutch saves to keep the Whalers in it. The junior goalie played aggressive against the Lakers, coming out quickly to cut down shooting angles. Musnicki recorded 14 saves in the first half alone.

Coach Shannon Judge thought defense would be the difference in the game and Musnicki, a converted defender, came up big for the Whalers.

"She stepped up for us," Judge said. "She's a great leader."

"My game plan was to communicate to everyone and keep control of my team to help us stay together," Musnicki said.  

Musnicki said Judge praised the Whalers effort after the game. Pierson had three penalty corners with under a minute to play in regulation but failed to convert.

"She said we were deserving of getting this far," Musnicki said. "Our school hasn't gone to this stage since 2002 and she said we did an amazing job."

The Whalers weren't lacking for fan support on Saturday. An energetic, vocal crowd turned out to cheer on the team waving homemade signs and black and red pom poms. The young men showed their Pierson team spirit by wearing red and black plaid skirts and red face paint.

Judge had nothing but praise for her team which ended the year at 12-6.

"They played so well," Judge said.

The Whalers graduate eight seniors including Lindsay Warne, who received a state championship sportsmanship award in the post-game ceremony. Musnicki and senior Alexa Lantiere were named to the all-tournament team.