West Hartford rivals Conard and Hall boys lacrosse faced each other for the final game of the regular season, which ended with an 11-8 win for the Red Wolves.

Sports reporting is sponsored by Keating Agency Insurance

By Liv Varellas. Photos by Cole Schweiger

Conard and Hall concluded another chapter to one of West Hartford’s biggest rivalries Wednesday night, as the Red Wolves capitalized on late game momentum to defeat the Titans 11-8 in a physical boys lacrosse match.

Conard controlled the pace from the start, winning the opening draw and holding possession deep in Titan territory before the opponents struck first. The Red Wolves established the intensity of the game immediately, quieting the Hall student section early with aggressive defensive pressure from Quinn Burton.

Conard soon extended a 2-0 lead with a goal from Chuck Doyle, aiding early Red Wolf momentum.

Junior attacker Ben Carlson soon came in clutch, delivering the Titans’ first goal of the night with a powerful full shot just outside the eight-meter hash, reviving the crowd and swinging energy back to Hall’s sideline. Moments later, Matt McDermott added even more spirit to the offensive run, with a spinning wind-up shot that hit the back of the net like butter to tie the game.

Conard midfielder fights through pressure of Hall defense, showcasing the athleticism that fueled a Red Wolves victory. Conard vs. Hall boys lacrosse. May 20, 2026. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

With momentum shifting toward the home team, the rivalry quickly evolved to a ping-pong-like scoring contest. Conard continued to pressure Hall defensively, anchored by strong communication from the Red Wolves’ goalie. 

By halftime, Conard narrowly held a 7-6 advantage after a late take from the attacking line up consisting of Jordan Lawson, Justin Nanayakkara, and Brady Meehan. These players facilitated key opportunities for points during the game.

Underclassman McDermott kept Hall within reach, scoring a hat-trick, supporting and leading Hall’s offensive end through the night. He was supported by his brother, Dillon McDermott on the defensive end, whose physical play kept Hall competitive.

As the fourth quarter began, Conard held their 8-7 lead, a narrow one, but no sweat as the Red Wolves remained composed in the game’s closing moments. Strong stops in front of the crease, and smart ball movement allowed Conard to extend the lead 10-8 with minutes remaining. The Red Wolves added one final goal to seal the 11-8 victory, and left the turf with the taste of sweet victory in their mouths.

Conard players celebrate after extending their lead further in an exciting matchup against Hall. The Red Wolves used their strong communication networks to get the ball in the back of the net. Conard vs. Hall boys lacrosse. May 20, 2026. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

The heated matchup featured everything expected in a crosstown match. Whether it was momentum swings, physical defense, or the consistent energy from both student sections, every possession carried significant weight, making the game nearly impossible to look away from.

Conard secured a rivalry three-peat over Hall, and finished the regular season with an 11-5 record and a berth in the state tournament. Although Hall’s season ended in defeat, and with a 6-10 record just missed qualifying for the state tournament, the players left the field with an unforgettable fight at their home stadium.

Conard players have a pre-game lock in before a hard battle against Hall, using team effort and on-field chemistry to secure the win. Conard vs. Hall boys lacrosse. May 20, 2026. Photo credit: Cole Schweiger

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