Men’s lacrosse off to a slow start

Junior Tyler Crowningshield looks to pass in the season opener versus Kean on March 9. Photo courtsey of castletonsports.com

Castleton men’s lacrosse has experienced a shaky start to their 2019 campaign. Since beginning the season on March 9, the Spartans find themselves sitting at 1-3.

During this four-game span, Castleton defeated SUNY Canton a resounding 18-8, but fell to Kean, Potsdam, and most recently, Utica.

Despite sitting at 1-2 entering the contest with Utica, some remained hopeful.

“I’m thinking we can have a battle if we stay disciplined and play our game,” said junior attackman Tyler Crowningshield.

And a battle it was. Crowningshield and senior midfielder Jason Sedell each netted a pair of goals early on and the Spartans entered the second half tied with the Pioneers 6-6, looking ready to follow through on this proclamation.

However, Utica came out too hot for the Spartans to handle in the second half, and ultimately the game got away from them. Castleton was outscored 8-1 in the final two quarters of the game, leaving the final score at a disappointing 13-6.

Defense has been an issue so far this season. In their three losses, the Spartans have been outscored an average of seven goals per game and have yet to allow fewer than eight goals in any matchup. Yet, some are undeterred by this recent skid.

“I expect that we should have a good rest of the season,” said Sedell. “We started off slow, but we just need to get out on the turf more so that we can get more used to playing with each other in a bigger area instead of playing in the Shape Gym. I believe we can make it to the playoffs and be a high seed. We know we have the potential and can put it all out there we just need to play full games and not have a lapse mid-way through. Everyone knows they can trust each other, we just have to believe in the system and do what we do best, which is play hard and play together. If we do that I don’t think any team can beat us.”

From a number’s standpoint, things might look dim, but it is just one week into the season. Luckily for the Spartans, they have not had any conference matchups yet and their three losses technically count as exhibitions. In other words, it is not too late to turn things around.

“A true warrior learns from his mistakes and prepares to conquer the next battle,” Crowningshield said.

The Spartans will retake the field on Tuesday March 21 at home against Plattsburgh.

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