Doran’s passing feeds Bulldog attack

HOPEWELL VALLEY BOYS LACROSSE

By: Tim Falls
   Dan Reeves tries to keep an eye on Eric Doran.
   Reeves knows there’s an excellent chance a pass from Doran on the attack could lead to a goal.
   Reeves and Mark Squicciarino each scored four goals, while Doran had four assists as the Hopewell Valley boys lacrosse team defeated Mendham, 10-4, on Tuesday.
   The Bulldogs recorded their fourth straight win and were scheduled to play Lawrence on Wednesday for what should have been their fifth.
   After starting the season with an 18-1 win over Ewing, Hopewell Valley edged Montgomery, 8-6, on April 5 and defeated Notre Dame 10-2, last Friday.
   Hopewell was particularly geared up for Montgomery.
   Squicciarino had a hat trick against the Cougars, Doran scored twice and Chris Tantum, Greg Reading and Reeves each had a goal.
   "Those were big games," said Reeves. "Montgomery and Mendham were big wins. They were both tough teams."
   Montgomery took the lead with two goals in the first quarter, but Hopewell Valley added two goals in the second quarter to leave the score tied, 3-3, at halftime.
   The Bulldogs gained control in the third quarter, scoring three goals while shutting out Montgomery.
   "We played hard, they played hard," said Reeves. "It was good game all around."
   Reeves had another four-goal effort against Notre Dame, while Squicciarino had another hat trick.
   Against Mendham, Reeves had a hat trick in the first half and added another goal in the second half.
   It may be just a coincidence that Doran has as many assists as Reeves has goals, but the senior credited Doran for presenting him with opportunities.
   "Eric Doran is a fantastic feeder," said Reeves. "I think all of my goals came off of his stick."
   The offensive coordination is a byproduct of experience.
   "We have good group that has been together for four years," said Reeves. "The experience helps. We have a bunch of good experienced players."
   The communication could be seen against Mendham, as Hopewell Valley picked apart the Minutemen’s defense.
   Squicciarino whipped in two goals from the top of the box after the Bulldogs cycled the ball from player to player.
   "I like the chemistry we have," said Reeves. "We’ve been working hard, in the offseason and in practice."
   The hard work has helped Hopewell Valley establish leads in its first four games.
   The Bulldogs led Montgomery in shots, 26-18, led Notre Dame, 39-12, and led Mendham, 37-14.
   With advantages like that in offense it is no surprise Hopewell Valley is unbeaten.