On a cold Saturday afternoon at Grady Field, the Cortland men’s lacrosse team showcased a dominant performance, securing a commanding 13-6 victory against Geneseo in their SUNYAC openers.
The game was marked by a remarkable offensive display from Cortland, coupled with solid defensive efforts that held Geneseo scoreless for an impressive stretch spanning 30 minutes and three seconds, from the first to the third quarters.
Leading the charge for Cortland was Ryan Scanlon, who tallied a game-high five points with three goals and two assists, showcasing his prowess on the offensive end. Klay Stuver contributed three goals to the effort, while Caden Yancey and Nick Stoecker each found the back of the net twice. The offensive depth was further highlighted by contributions from Sam Rothman, Matt Franzoni, and Ryan Eccles, among others.
In the defensive zone, Cortland’s goalkeeper Travis Wagner proved to be a formidable presence, registering 11 saves and effectively marshaling the defense. Aidan McHugh provided crucial support with eight faceoff wins, while Christian Lembo, Conner Gallagher, and Alex Thrasher anchored the defensive unit with key ground balls and caused turnovers.
Despite a spirited effort from Geneseo, led by Jimmy Atkinson’s two goals and solid performances from William McCumiskey and Robert Boniello, the Knights struggled to penetrate Cortland’s defensive stronghold. Goalkeeper Andrew Tittmann made 16 saves in an attempt to stem the tide, but Cortland’s relentless offensive pressure proved overwhelming.
The Red Dragons seized control of the game early, establishing a 4-2 lead after the first quarter and extending it to 7-2 by halftime. Geneseo was unable to find the back of the net in the second quarter, further solidifying Cortland’s lead and setting the tone for the remainder of the game.
As the contest progressed, Cortland continued to assert their dominance, stretching their lead to 11-2 late in the third quarter. Although Geneseo managed to break their scoreless streak, Cortland maintained their momentum, ultimately clinching a resounding 13-6 victory.
With this impressive win, Cortland improves to 4-2 overall, while Geneseo falls to 5-4. As both teams reflect on the game and look ahead to future matchups, Cortland’s commanding performance serves as a testament to their skill, determination, and depth in the competitive landscape of collegiate lacrosse.
Cortland’s student assistant Jaden Diggs, commenting on the team’s performance, expressed pride in their cohesive play and emphasized the importance of maintaining momentum throughout the season. Looking ahead, he highlighted the team’s commitment to continuous improvement and their aspirations for success in the upcoming matches. “This win is a testament to our hard work and dedication, but we know there’s always room to grow and improve,” Diggs added.
As the season progresses, Cortland’s lacrosse team aims to sustain their impressive form, maintaining a relentless pursuit of victory. With each match, they reinforce their status as contenders, fueled by determination and a collective drive for success in the competitive collegiate lacrosse landscape.
The victory not only solidifies Cortland’s position in the SUNYAC standings but also sends a clear message to their rivals as they aim to maintain their momentum and continue their winning ways in the remainder of the season.