ANDERSON, S.C. – The Anderson University men's lacrosse team came up short to the Coker University Cobras 18-15 in the final game of the 2021 inaugural season on Saturday (Apr. 17).
It was a winner take all game between the two teams, as the winner would clinch a spot in the South Atlantic Conference tournament starting next week. Anderson jumped out to an early 1-0 lead thanks to a man-up goal from freshman star Isaiah Hines, who came into today tied for third in the SAC with 38 goals. After Coker responded with three unanswered goals, Kaleb West got the Trojans on the scoreboard for the second time in the first period, off an assist from Logan Gaddis.
The Cobras held an 8-2 lead early in the second period, but the Trojans came fighting back after Gaddis scored back to back goals to trim the deficit. Hayes Barnett and Isaiah Hines each scored as well before halftime as the Trojans went into break trailing 9-6.
Hayes Barnett had a great second half for Anderson as he scored six of his seven goals in the final 30 minutes of play. Despite Barnett's efforts, the Cobras were able to grind out an 18-15 win. Goalie Logan Trafton picked up 11 saves in the losing effort, while Ethan Pratt went 15-32 on faceoff attempts and Barnett led the team with seven goals. Hines finished with three, meanwhile Ryley Zopfi and Logan Gaddis each had two scores.
"Not the way we wanted the season to end but I am proud of how we competed all year," said coach Albert Mitchell. "I am looking forward to working with this group in the upcoming seasons. We cannot wait to build on this year's success."
The Trojans finish the season with a 4-9 record, including two wins in a very competitive South Atlantic Conference. Freshman Isaiah Hines is second in the SAC with 41 goals, while Cam Weeks led the conference with 157 GB's. Sean Ring ranks fifth with 117 saves.
