All season long the Half Hollow Hills and Northport lacrosse teams were neck and neck in Suffolk's Class A standings, so it was only fitting that they would meet in the finals to finally determine who was the better team. Half Hollow Hills left no doubt or debate after taking home the title this week.
They weren't just facing a Northport team that went 14-1 in conference on the season, but they were seemingly fighting against history as well. Half Hollow Hills hadn't won a championship since 1962, despite having some very impressive teams over the years.
This game seemed like it was going to be another case of always a bridesmaid, never a bride situation but the Thunder ended any chance of that with a furious 3rd quarter run. They scored five times in the third and were able to hold on for a thrilling 9-8 win. They finally slayed the dragon, or in this case the Lions. Northport was looking for their 4th county championship and their imposing lineup gave Hills everything they could handle. They already spoiled their perfect season, so this was even more satisfying for the Thunder.
Perhaps the best player on the Island Anthony Raio led the team with three goals, while Zach Marco and Joe Filardi both had two. Half Hollow Hills will now play for its first-ever Long Island championship when it faces Farmingdale Wednesday at Longwood.