Jags playing well, and getting better
BY MIKE WHITE
Staff Writer

JACKSON - The Jackson High School girls lacrosse team is off to a fast start for the 2007 season.

With an impressive 3-1 record, which includes a win over rival Toms River North, coach Lori Johnson feels her squad is yet to reach its full potential. Johnson is still waiting for her troops to perform consistently from face-off to the final buzzer.

"We've played pretty well in the early part of the schedule," Johnson said. "We're doing some nice things at both ends of the field. Our problem is that we need to make sure that we finish the game the same way we started. We lose focus at points, and that results in some sloppy play."

Jackson knocked off Class A South opponent Southern Regional, 10-5, last Friday to notch its third victory of the year. Ashley Cranmer paced the Lady Jaguars' offensive attack, scoring five goals and adding an assist as Jackson led at halftime, 5-2. Erin Ferro notched two goals and added an assist.

"I thought we played pretty solidly in that game," Johnson said. "Again, we were a little off in the first part of the game, but then we eventually settled down and played the way we are capable. That's where our inconsistent play comes in. We need to continue to work on playing an entire game."

Jackson built a 5-2 lead at half, but then reeled off four unanswered goals in the second half to forge ahead, 9-2.

"We just cruised from there," Johnson said. "We were really sharp in the second half. We found the open man and made the extra pass."

In the win over Toms River North, the Lady Jags raced out to what appeared to be an insurmountable 8-1 lead. However, Jackson failed to nail it down, and the Mariners clawed back to within 8-5. Jackson ultimately won the game, 10-7.

That win was important considering Jackson lost to TRN three times last season.

"Losing to them three times last year certainly was motivation to play well against them this outing," Johnson said. "We played real well and built a nice cushion. But I think we let up a bit and let them back in the game. Against teams like TRN, you can never afford to let them build momentum. We know that from past history. They are too good a program."

Ferro led Jackson with four goals, while teammate Kierstyn Maybe had two goals and two assists. Maybe did not play last year but decided to rejoin the club for the 2007 campaign.

"We're glad to have her back," Johnson said. "There is no doubt that she is going to make significant contributions to this team. I spoke to her and told her to come back out for the team. She has been having a lot of fun."

Jackson squares off against three A South teams this week. The Jags meet Brick, Toms River South and Toms River East. Johnson and her crew realize the significance this part of the schedule has.

"Of course it's a key week," Johnson said. "By the end of the week we'll be through the first meeting with all of our conference opponents. We'll have a good idea of where we stand by Saturday. Hopefully, we play well and are able to put forth our best effort in all three contests. All three will be demanding games."