LAKE FOREST, Ill. — The Lawrence University football team battled through a difficult road matchup Saturday afternoon, falling to Lake Forest College 72-13 at Farwell Field.
Lake Forest came out quickly, scoring four touchdowns in the opening quarter to take a 28-0 lead. The Foresters continued their offensive attack in the second quarter, adding three more touchdowns to take a 49-0 advantage into halftime.
The Foresters were particularly effective on the ground during the opening half while also finding success through the air. Quarterback Ethan Springer connected on several big plays, including touchdown passes to Dom Esposito and Patrick Ross.
Lake Forest added to its advantage early in the third quarter, but Lawrence responded with its first touchdown of the afternoon. Tristian Gooden broke free for a 15-yard touchdown run, capping a 75-yard Lawrence drive and putting the Vikings on the scoreboard.
Gooden finished with 47 rushing yards on eight carries, including the touchdown.
Lake Forest answered with another score following the Lawrence touchdown, but the Vikings continued to compete offensively. Lawrence's second touchdown came early in the fourth quarter when Jordan Pidala connected with Antonie Perry on a 35-yard scoring strike.
Pidala completed 10 of 21 passes for 159 yards and a touchdown, while Perry led the Lawrence receiving corps with three catches for 59 yards and the score. Ethan Holland added three receptions for 61 yards, including a 51-yard reception.
The Lawrence defense continued to battle throughout the afternoon, with Tyler Gamble and Jaden Johnson each recording five tackles. Johnson also added a tackle for loss, while George Taylor finished with three tackles and a tackle for loss.
Lake Forest closed out the scoring with its final touchdown late in the third quarter, bringing the final margin to 72-13.
