GUILDERLAND — The Guilderland girls’ lacrosse team improved its record to 5-1 this season with wins over Averill Park and Saratoga last week.

The Lady Dutch topped Averill Park, 17-8, and then beat Saratoga, 15-6, last Wednesday.

Guilderland beat its longtime rival after making the trek up to Saratoga.
"This was a big win for us," said Guilderland Coach Gary Chatnik. "Saratgoa is one of the premier teams in the area. We played well. This is a game where the offense and defense clicked together."

Jen Madsen led the Dutch scoring with four goals. Danielle Tetreault had two goals and two assists.

Chelsey Newman added two goals and one assist. Nikki Branchini, Amanda Best, and Abbey Fashouer each had two goals. Courtney Davis had a goal and Bridget Daley added an assist.

Jen Kaye had six saves in the goal.
"Chelsey Newman controlled the draws and got us the possessions we needed," Chatnik said. "She had a great game. Bridget Daley did a terrific job on one of their top scorers and Nikki Branchini held their top scorer to one goal. Amanda Best had an excellent two-way game and was all over the field.
"The scoring speaks for itself. Jen, Danielle, Courtney, and Abbey scored well and controlled the ball, but I was more impressed with their rides which resulted in many Saratoga turnovers. Their aggressiveness resulted in many fast-break opportunities.
"The defense also came up big," Chatnik added. "Julie Malkowksi, Lynn Tran, Lauren Cagino, Laura Decker, Amy Branchini, and Corrinne Chatnik played very well. They were all over the field and cleared the ball well. Jen Kaye just keeps getting better and is making excellent decisions on the field. This win should give us confidence in the rest of league play."

"Back on track"

The Lady Dutch beat Averill Park on April 9 in a road contest.

Fashouer led the scoring with four goals. Branchini had three goals, while Daley, Davis, Madsen, and Tetreault each had two goals.

Best added one goal and three assists and Newman had one goal and two assists

Kaye made two saves in goal for the Lady Dutch.
"It was a good game to get back on track," Chatnik said. "Our offense was solid, but our defense was a bit rusty, especially in the first half. We took control in the second half and I was pleased with the way we finished. I give Averill Park a lot of credit. They are well coached."

The Dutch had their last two games — against Shenendehowa and Colonie — postponed due to rain and poor field conditions. The Dutch play at Bethlehem today (Thursday) and return home to play Burnt Hills on Friday. Guilderland plays at Shaker on Tuesday.