Old Rochester Regional’s stellar field hockey season has come to a bitter end.

After an undefeated record and exciting overtime victory against East Bridgewater in the first round of semifinals Friday, the second-seeded Bulldogs fell to Harwich 2-1 on Sunday. The loss signaled the close of a season head coach Polly Lawrence called unimaginable—in a good way, of course.

There were injuries. Knee braces. Concussions. Even freshman coming in for seasoned players. But there were also shutouts and some darn good field hockey.

“I couldn’t have imagined us coming out on top like we did,” Lawrence said. “I’m not disappointed in any way. The season was thrilling and we improved with every game.”

Throughout the season, the Bulldogs have fought their way to the top. Senior Sarah Marchisio returned after missing last year due to a knee injury. Apart from the knee brace, you wouldn’t know she missed a beat.

Freshman Hannah Cormier also stepped up, filling in for senior goaltender Cassie Helmar after Helmar suffered a concussion early in the season. Despite the lack of experience, Lawrence said Cormier helped the team secure 11 shutouts.

“It was a tough game,” Lawrence said of the loss. “The team had a consensus that the week between made somewhat of a difference. But we worked hard. Having almost a week between big games, even if you scrimmage and practice each day, can throw you off.”

Standout halfback Kayla Johnston was also out for the semifinal weekend due to an illness. Lawrence said she hadn’t missed a game or practice all season.

“We lost a few seniors this year, but it was a nice little surprise seeing everyone step up,” Lawrence said. “The team was consistent and played hard the whole way.”