ALMA, Mich. — Lawrence University (2-1, 0-0) secured a decisive 12-4 victory over Alma College (0-4, 0-0) at Bahlke Field on Sunday. Lawrence's offensive effort was highlighted by a six-goal third quarter that effectively sealed the win.
The game began with Lawrence taking control in the initial faceoff, which
Devon Cooper won, allowing
Zak Sokolowski to secure the ground ball. This momentum led to a scoring opportunity when
Robbie Spielmann, assisted by
Henry Fischer, netted the first goal of the quarter at 11:36, giving the Vikings the early lead.
Lawrence's defense and
Tyler Graham's saves kept the Scots at bay until Cuyler Fielhauer equalized for the home team at 7:24. Despite multiple shot attempts from Lawrence, including efforts by
Brody Herr and
Joe McCabe, the score remained tied. The quarter closed with the score knotted at 1-1.
Lawrence began the second quarter by maintaining defensive pressure, forcing multiple turnovers by the opposition while executing successful clear attempts. Despite several shots on goal, including efforts by
Logan Marsh and Spielmann, the Vikings were unable to capitalize initially, as Alma's goalkeeper Preston Stelljes made several key saves.
Midway through the quarter, Alma managed to break through with a goal by Nolan O'Dea, putting them ahead. Lawrence responded with determination, and in the final minute, Herr found the back of the net to equalize the score. The quarter ended with both teams tied at 2-2.
Lawrence seized momentum in the third quarter after Alma initially struck with a goal by Fielhauer, assisted by Curtis Pleiness. Lawrence quickly responded as Fischer netted a goal with an assist from Marsh, followed by another unassisted goal by Fischer, putting Lawrence ahead 4-3.
The Vikings continued to dominate as McCabe and Herr each scored, extending the lead to 6-3. Fischer completed his hat trick to further widen the margin, and Marsh capitalized on a man-up opportunity with a goal assisted by Spielmann. Lawrence closed the quarter with a commanding 8-3 advantage, outscoring the opposition 6-1 in the third.
Lawrence began the fourth quarter by winning the opening faceoff, which set the tone for their aggressive play.
Ryan Ostermann scored early on with an assist from Spielmann, increasing Lawrence's lead.
Judah Goehring added another goal shortly after, assisted by Marsh, further extending the advantage.
Alma managed to score with a goal from Fielhauer, but Lawrence quickly responded.
Taryn Callaway scored thanks to a setup by Herr, and Herr then found the net himself with assistance from Spielmann, solidifying Lawrence's dominant position in the quarter.
The Vikings controlled the faceoffs and maintained pressure throughout, preventing Alma from closing the gap. The quarter concluded with Lawrence leading 12-4, successfully extending their lead and securing the victory.