ANDERSON, S.C. – The No. 19 Anderson University men's lacrosse team celebrated senior day with a win, as they were able to defeat conference opponent Mars Hill 20-16 on Saturday (April 15) on Spero Financial Field, snapping their four game losing streak.
How it Happened
Ryley Zopfi kicked off his senior day by draining one into the cage, pacing the Anderson offense the first quarter, with follow up goals from fellow senior Beau Henson and freshman Matthew Rodgers to take the 3-0 lead heading into the second period.
Ethan Pratt was instrumental in Anderson's second quarter, capitalizing on 12-17 faceoff to give the Trojans the upper hand for possession time. Radyn Badraun took Anderson to the net for the first goal of the period, all a part of his four goal afternoon. These were followed by scores from Ryan Bitterman, Diego Lopez, Max Calabrese, Matthew Rodgers, and Beau Henson. The Lions answered with seven themselves, but the Trojans maintained the five goal lead heading into halftime (12-7).
Penalties plagued both sides, but both teams took advantage, scoring in each man-up situation they were given. Scores continued to be exchanged, with Anderson outscoring Mars Hill 5-4 heading into the final stretch (17-11).
The Lions clawed their way close to a comeback, but even with five goals in the final 12 minutes, the Trojans secured the win with junior Ryan Gundersen scoring the final goal in regulation to end any hope for the Lions' comeback.
"Glad to be back in the win column," said Anderson head coach Albert Mitchell, "We need to execute better down the stretch, but great fight from this group. Glad to clinch a spot in the SAC tournament. Our focus turns to Lincoln Memorial."
Anderson will be back in action on Saturday (April 22) as they take on conference opponent Lincoln Memorial University for the final game of the regular season. The first face-off is scheduled for 4 p.m., with live stats and video being available on autrojans.com
In the Box
Radyn Badraun led the scoring with four goals and two assists.
Beau Henson had three goals.
Diego Lopez caused four turnovers, while Tagrt Houghton, Radyn Badraun, and Chris Czulada each had two.
Matthew Rodgers, Max Calabrese, and Ryley Zopfi each had two goals.
Logan Gaddis had two goals and added four assists.
Rex Hardy, Ryan Gundersen, Brayden Bushnoe, Diego Lopez, and Ryan Bitterman each had one goal.
Keaton Mathews had two assists.
Ethan Pratt won 20-36 faceoffs, his career high.
Bryce Cheek had a career high night of 17 saves.
*written by Colin Calvert
