While facing heavy rain, Maggie Reynolds, a freshman, connected on the Red Storm’s lone goal with 1 minute, 34 seconds remaining in the contest off a pass from senior Tyler Burth. The goal, which was Reynolds’ first of her young varsity career, essentially sent the game to overtime.

Saranac Lake head coach Jason Wamsganz was proud of how his team played in the second half and in overtime, despite not coming away with the win.

“We are all still trying to figure some things out and get people in positions for maximum success,” he said. “I was a bit nervous for them, and I think it rubbed off. I need to settle into the game quicker and do a better job of keeping them settled … we’ll get there.”

The Red Storm got off to a bit of a slow start Thursday, allowing Northern Adirondack’s Ava Moore to open up the scoring 26 minutes into the first half. However, Saranac Lake made some minor adjustments to reclaim control of the contest.

Saranac Lake’s Emma Akey, left, blocks a Northern Adirondack player’s shot during Thursday’s home game at the new Wilson-Raymond turf field. (Enterprise photo — Parker O’Brien)

“We did not open the game the way we had wanted, but that’s the reality of sports and life,” Wamsganz said. “We talk to our players about overcoming adversity and being resilient and these girls did just that. They worked hard getting themselves and each other back in the game and we were able to do so without being at our best. That is a positive, something that doesn’t show up in the score book, but certainly matters in life.”

The Red Storm outshot their opponents 13-12. Meanwhile, Emma Akey, a senior, recorded eight saves in net for Saranac Lake. The Bobcats’ Rielyn Nutt also had eight saves.

The game marked the first time a Saranac Lake varsity team has played on the new turf field in front of the high school, which recently completed its summer-long construction. With player introductions, usage of the jumbotron and a bit of a light show, Wamsganz said it was a big night unveiling the new athletic complex.

“It was exciting, nerve-racking and ultimately a great experience for so many people,” he said. “These kids will remember this for a long time.”

The Red Storm, which is now 1-0-1 overall after beating Keene last week, will host the AuSable Valley Patriots at 6 p.m. on Monday. Wamsganz said the Patriots are a Division 1 school and expects them to be good.

Saranac Lake’s Maggie Reynolds, center, races past a Northern Adirondack player during Thursday’s home opener on the new Wilson-Raymond turf field. Also pictured is Saranac Lake’s Tyler Burth. (Enterprise photo — Parker O’Brien)

“We have to be ready for that challenge,” he said.

Saranac Lake’s Wren Crist, left, fights for the ball with a Northern Adirondack player during Thursday’s home opener. (Enterprise photo — Parker O’Brien)