Washington, Pa. - The Catholic University of America men's lacrosse team defeated the Presidents of Washington & Jefferson on Thursday, April 2, in Washington, Pa.

The Cardinals jumped to an early lead, scoring five straight goals in the first quarter before their opponent's two goal response. Sophomore middie John Blee scored an unassisted goal to get the Cardinals going, and was followed by freshman middie Liam Clancy's goal assisted by senior attack Brian Keith. One minute later, sophomore midfielder Victor Licata scored an unassisted goal to put the Cardinals ahead 3-0. Fellow sophomore middie Dylan Neville scored with an assist from senior attack-middie Billy Kirmsse. With under four minutes left in the first quarter, sophomore attack Tim Keith scored with an assist from Licata, allowing the Cardinals a 5-0 lead.

Washington & Jefferson finally scored at the end of the first quarter, recording two goals in the first and two goals in the second. Ahead 5-4 at halftime, the Cardinals needed to regain possession and create more scoring opportunities. They succeeded by scoring two man-up goals in the third quarter. Clancy recorded his second and freshman attack Samuel Montgomery scored with an assist from Tim Keith. The Presidents responded with a goal at the eight minute mark in the third, the score reading 7-5 in favor of the Cardinals. Clancy ended the third on a high note as he scored his third goal of the day, assisted by Tim Keith.

The teams battled back and forth in the final quarter, but Catholic maintained their lead. Sophomore middie Ethan Rodriguez scored to put the Cardinals ahead 9-6, and was assisted by Brian Keith. Tim Keith recorded back-to-back goals for Catholic towards the end of the fourth, one of which was assisted by fellow sophomore Connor Bruno. The Cardinals came away with the 11-8 win over the Presidents, setting their overall season record at 7-4.

Junior goalie Harrison Holak made a total of 10 saves on the day. The Catholic defense worked well as a unit to help produce 12 good clears out of 14 total attempts.

The Cardinals will host Drew on Saturday, April 11, for a 12:00 p.m. game in Cardinals Stadium.

written by Colleen Loftus, Student Communications Assistant