Men Lacrosse defeats Bridgewater State in "24 Cup" Rivalry game

On Friday, March 19^th, the Stonehill Men’s Lacrosse team took on rival Bridgewater State College in the annual “24 Cup Battle.”  The “24 Cup” stays in the possession of the victor for an entire year, until the two schools face off again the following season.  Typically a very competitive game, this year’s game was no different, as Stonehill would look to reclaim the cup, which has been in their possession for six out of the past eight years. 
         Despite being their opening home game, Stonehill showed no signs of apprehension or hesitation as they were able to control possession from the very beginning of the first quarter.  Stonehill’s stifling defense and strong offense to start the game were more than Bridgewater could handle, as Hill was able to control over 90% of the possession in the first quarter.  This quick start was accompanied by three goals; two from senior attackman Colin Lancey, and one from freshman attackman Anthony Powers.  Looking to regroup from Stonehill’s frenzied start, Bridgewater started the second period with a goal, but were unable to breakdown the Stonehill defense, led by freshman Charlie MacDonald and Mike Philips, who were perfect on clearing the ball out of their defensive third of the field throughout the game.  In what would be their highest scoring period of the game, Stonehill responded to Bridgewater’s opening second period goal, with five goals of their own.  Sophomore midfielder Connor Green scored twice, along with two more goals from Powers and a goal from Lancey.  With a halftime score of 8-1, Stonehill was well on their way to another “24 Cup.”
        The third quarter saw Bridgewater become more aggressive and desperate as they searched for a way back into the game.  Starting goalkeeper Michael Philips recounts, “Bridgewater’s growing frustration led to several penalties against them allowing us to score twice.  However, we were also called for several penalties which Bridgewater converted into three goals in the period.”  Settling down, and getting back to their game in the fourth, Stonehill was able to close with goals from Senior Tom Higgins, and Freshman Peter Timbrell and Reed Kern.  With the “24 Cup” back with Stonehill for the third consecutive year, the team has gotten off to a great start at 2-1.

Highlights/Stats: Soph. Jimmy Barrett helped give Stonehill a majority of their possessions by going 10/11 on face-offs, Stonehill held possession for all but 1:05 seconds in the first quarter, Robert Mostertz played well as the substitute goalkeeper in the 4^th quarter.

Goals/Assists:  C. Lancey 4G, A. Powers 2G/ 2A, C. Green 2G/2A, T. Higgins 2G, Peter Timbrell 1G, Reed Kern 1G, D. Cermack 1G, M Philips 4 S