Coming off Tuesday’s win, the Stony Brook men’s lacrosse team delivered a strong first quarter en route to another victory.
Leading right from the first quarter, the Seawolves (4-2) played the Manhattan Jaspers (2-3) in Riverdale, N.Y. on Saturday afternoon. From its early dominance, Stony Brook was able to come away triumphant with a 12-7 win.
The Seawolves made themselves known immediately in the first period, securing the game’s first goal just two minutes into it; the goal was courtesy of midfielder Caleb Yeung, who was assisted by attackman Justin Bonacci.
Although Stony Brook’s defense was strong all game — encapsulated by it not conceding a goal until it was up by three goals — the opening frame was Manhattan’s most successful quarter of the contest, as it got past goaltender Jamison MacLachlan three times.
However, after a 5-3 first period lead, the Seawolves utilized their advantage on the ground to remain on top all afternoon. Although the Jaspers displayed a willingness to keep things close — trailing just 6-5 at halftime — Stony Brook regained control halfway through the third frame.
Midfielder Tanner Williams, attackman Carson Boyle — while a man-up — and Yeung put up a goal on the board for the Seawolves apiece within 5:59, handing them a convincing 9-6 advantage they would not relinquish again after Manhattan tied the affair earlier in the quarter.
Stony Brook cruised during the final period, outscoring the hosts 3-1.
“Proud of the guys on earning a tough, gritty win on the road,” head coach Anthony Gilardi said in a postgame interview with Stony Brook Athletics. “I thought we played great team lacrosse. I’m excited to keep seeing these guys work hard and improve.”
Bonacci led the Seawolves’ attacking effort with a hat trick — his first of the season — and a career-high four assists for seven points — his most in a game at the collegiate level.
Conversely, Manhattan midfielder Kelly DuPree led his team’s offensive charge with a hat trick of his own.
MacLachlan made 13 saves for a .650 save percentage. Manhattan goaltender Connor Hapward also finished with 13 stops but a .520 mark.
Stony Brook will be back next weekend when it takes the field against the Binghamton Bearcats on Saturday at Kenneth P. LaValle Stadium. The Bearcats are 0-3 this year and will face Siena on Wednesday before taking on the Seawolves. Opening face-off for Saturday’s game is set for noon.
