Men’s Lacrosse: Team Chemistry on Full Display During BU’s 16-4 Victory Over Holy Cross
By Kasie Costalas
The Boston University Men’s Lacrosse Team (8-2, 4-1 PL) defeated the Holy Cross Crusaders (3-8, 1-4 PL) in a commanding 16-4 conference win on Saturday during BU’s Lax-A-Palooza doubleheader.
Senior Will Barnes led the effort for the Terriers, collecting 10 saves in goal. He set BU up for domination as he fulfilled a three-quarter shutout against the Crusaders.
“It’s always really important, kind of having that mindset that the next shot is gonna be the most important,” he said. “Whether you’re up 10 or you’re up three, it’s just kind of focusing on that next save and helping your team progress through the game.”
In addition to the defensive end, BU dominated possession, securing 21 of 23 faceoff opportunities. Freshman Madden Murray and senior Matthew Fritz both went undefeated in the midfield and combined for 14 of the Terriers’ faceoffs.
“They were really controlling the clamp and putting the ball to where we needed it, and they won a bunch of faceoffs to themselves,” said head coach Ryan Polley.
Timothy Shannehan, who leads both BU and all NCAA rookies this season with 40 points, opened the scoring just minutes into the game. Jimmy O’Connell was also able to add his first of the day, giving BU a 2-0 advantage.
Despite the early lead, Holy Cross’ defense played strongly in the second quarter and prevented the Terriers from scoring for the first seven minutes. On a man-up opportunity, O’Connell delivered a crease feed to attacker Jimmy Garofalo, who ripped a bounce shot with three seconds left on the shot clock.
“Although the score was 6-0 at half, I thought the game was closer, and I think we were fortunate enough to, based on our defense and possession, have that lead,” said Polley.
In the third quarter, seven BU players scored seven goals to secure their win and showcase their well-rounded offense. With four minutes left in the quarter, long pole Mike Luce received a clear from Barnes and pushed the ball downfield to score his first goal of the season.
Less than 30 seconds later, O’Donnell scooped up a wide shot made by freshman Ben Morris. He was immediately able to find Shannehan in front of the net, who quick-sticked the ball in for his second goal of the day.
Although the Crusaders found some momentum in the fourth quarter with Andrew Ottomanelli scoring twice, junior Jimmy Kohr completed a hat trick to help the Terriers finish a strong victory.
The Terriers demonstrated their offensive chemistry by collecting 10 assists on 16 goals for the day, including three apiece from O’Connell and Shannehan. Along with his four goals, O’Connell led the day with seven points.
“ Our guys play really unselfish,” said Coach Polley. “I thought Jimmy O’Connell was great again tonight. He’s really stepped up, and he’s just doing a wonderful job down at attack.”
The Terriers will return to Nickerson Field on Saturday, April 5th at 1 p.m. for their homecoming game against the Duke Blue Devils.