By DREW FASY
The Ocean City High School boys lacrosse team relied on strong defense to carry them to a 15-3 victory against Toms River East in the South Jersey Group 3 State quarterfinal played at Carey Stadium Tuesday afternoon.
Ocean City, which had a record of 12-7 and was ranked No. 4 entering the tournament, beat Hightstown, 16-3, in the opening round. Toms River East, ranked No. 6, beat Toms River South, 19-8, in the opening round.
The quarterfinal game was close in the first half, with Ocean City leading 4-1.
“Our defense played really well today. They were aggressive and when they play that way, we usually win,” Ocean City goalie Henry Vaules said.
The Red Raiders took control in the second half, outscoring Toms River East 11-1. Chaystan Labarr led Ocean City with five goals, Pat Grimley added three and seven other Ocean City players scored one each.
“Our guys up front on offense were putting the ball in the net in the second half, and that takes the pressure off of us (the defense) and lets us play a controlled and complete game,” Red Raider Joey Berardis said.
Ocean City will travel to No. 2 Shawnee on Monday to play in the semifinal round. The South Jersey Group 3 championship will be held on Wednesday, June 5.
