By: Will Boothe
February 24, 2024
Centenary University men’s lacrosse team challenged Albertus Magnus College at the J.E. Reeves Junior Field on Saturday, Feb. 24.
Centenary Head Coach Pat Regan believed that the Falcons unexpectedly outmatched the Cyclones.
“We only lost one player to graduation last year – we picked up several first-time players- so it will be a learning and growing season,” said Regan.
Unfortunately, Regan’s statement proved true for this game.
Last season, the lacrosse record for the Cyclones was 0-15 overall, and 0-6 in the Atlantic East Conference.
“I have put the team in the hands of my tri-captains, Ronan Bova, Michael Inglima, and Mark Gilles,” said Regan, “They lead on and off the field.”
Throughout the game, the Falcons outscored the Cyclones, much to the shock of the outdoor crowd rooting for Centenary.
By the end of the first three quarters, the Cyclones were able to score one point, allowing them to add three points to their tally so far.
The Falcons, however, started strong by garnering nine points during the first quarter. When the second quarter ended, the Falcons earned three points.
“This was my first time playing lacrosse this year,” said Mathias O’Neil, Centenary senior and men’s lacrosse midfielder.
He and the other first-time players on the field experienced the jitters before the home crowd.
The tension between the Cyclones and the Falcons increased during the second half of the game. During the third quarter, the Falcons secured six goals, tallying 18 points.
The Cyclones stepped up their A-game with two additional goals during the fourth quarter. Unfortunately, the Falcons were able to secure their victory with another three goals, causing the Cyclones to lose the game 5-21.
Despite this loss, the Cyclones look forward to challenging their opponents during the second half of the 2024 spring semester.
“I liked playing this game because I was able to help my teammates,” said Mark Gilles, Centenary junior and lacrosse attacker.
Centenary men’s lacrosse team currently has an overall record of 0-1.
“I’d like to think we can win two or three games this season,” added Regan.
Good luck this season, Cyclones!
Centenary University men's lacrosse team stand together at the J.E. Reeves Jr. Field on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024. (Photo by Will Boothe)
Centenary men's lacrosse player Mathias O'Neil fights Albertus Magnus men's lacrosse player Rocco Albanese at J.E. Reeves Jr. Field on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024. (Photo by Will Boothe)
Centenary men's lacrosse players and Albertus Magnus men's lacrosse players play against each other during overtime at J.E. Reeves Jr. Field on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024.(Photo by Will Boothe)