The Gilmour Academy boys lacrosse team collected one of its more memorable wins in recent history as the Lancers opened postseason play with a pair of victories this past week.
After earning an opening-round bye courtesy of their high seed, Gilmour cruised to a 16-1 win in its second-round matchup with West Geauga High School. The win over the Wolverines set up a quarterfinal showdown against archrival University School, the second seed in the 20-team region.
The Lancers put forth an incredible effort against the Preppers, with senior captain Kessel Richards '21 leading the way in the cage with a performance that won't soon be forgotten. Richards made an astonishing 28 saves in the playoff matchup, time and again stopping promising attempts by the hosts.
While Gilmour trailed for much of the game, the Lancers stayed in touch with US and never let the Preppers open up a significant advantage.
University School held a 7-6 lead entering the final minutes, but Gilmour refused to give up. The Lancers scored twice in the final two minutes of regulation to flip the script and post a thrilling win.
Tanyon Bajzer '21 tied the game by ripping a shot from over 15 yards out after taking a feed from Luke Radke '23 on the right wing. In the final minute of the game, Bajzer was the distributor as he fought off a defender to feed Tate Simpson '21 on the left wing. After receiving Bajzer's pass, Simpson stepped into a shot which found its way over the US goalie's shoulder and into the net.
Bajzer and Dylan Dekoe '21 tied for team-high honors with four points as both tallied two goals and two assists. Cam Bajzer '22 finished with two goals and an assist while Robby Belknap '21 added a goal for GA.
In addition to his stunning save total, Richards collected eight ground balls for the Lancers.
Gilmour had started its playoff journey with a much more comfortable win over West Geauga.
In that victory, the Bajzer brothers stole the show for Gilmour. Cam Bajzer led the team in points (2g, 6a) while Tanyon Bajzer topped Gilmour in goals (4g, 2a). Dekoe, Nick Larrabee '21 and Simpson each posted a multi-goal outing as well.
Richards and Rocco Hice '23 combined for the win in goal over the Wolverines.
With the two wins, Gilmour will make its first appearance in the regional semifinal round of the state tournament since the OHSAA began sponsoring the sport.
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