By Matt Harness
YourSeason.com
Eileen Harris admitted playing at the United Center for the first time overwhelmed even her.
The states player of the year said it took one period for her and her New Trier teammates to get comfortable with their surroundings in Fridays Blackhawk Cup state final.
Morgan Crane broke the scoreless tie with her team-best 42nd goal midway through the second period, and top-seeded New Trier made it hold up in its 1-0 win over defending state champion Lake Forest. It was the Trevians first title since 2009 and seventh overall.
Stay in the game with the latest updates on your beloved Chicago sports teams! Sign up here for our All Access Daily newsletter.
We needed to get that one goal to make us relax and get into a rhythm, said Harris, who will play at Amherst College next season.
Shortly after the Scouts killed New Triers power play, Crane skated free before sending the puck past Lindsay Projansky with 7:17 to go in the second period.
Morgans one of our sharpest players, and we always look to her in big games, said Harris, one of eight seniors and a two-year varsity member. As a freshman, shes really carried her weight. I was just sad I was not out there with them for that goal.
Lake Forest applied pressure in the third period, but the Trevians beat back the effort. New Trier (29-3-5) earned its third win over the Scouts (26-7-4) this season and ended up unbeaten in five games against Lake Forest.
News
New Trier outshot Lake Forest 22-12 in the game. Senior Lexie Cirrincione notched the shutout in goal.
Lot of posts, Lake Forest senior forward Jessie Gould said. We needed more shots. Its pretty upsetting. Yeah, its frustrating.
Gould ended her career by playing in three consecutive state championships, taking home the title last spring.
I was really blessed, she said. I had great coaches, great teammates. It was an honor to be part of this program. Truly amazing.
Id love to do it again.