Binghamton Lacrosse: A Nail-Biter Season Opener
Binghamton’s men’s lacrosse team faced a tough defeat in its 2026 season opener against Lafayette, ending with a score of 10-9 at Fisher Stadium. The Bearcats, looking to start strong, had standout performances but fell just short.
Andrew Girolamo, a preseason All-Conference selection, shone bright with four goals. His impressive tally ties the record for the most goals scored by a Bearcat in a season opener. Notably, this achievement brings to mind Gage Adams and Matthew Keegan, who recorded five goals each in a game against Marist back in February 2023.
In goal, Connor Winters made 15 crucial saves and even scored, showing his versatility. This was memorable for him, as his last scoring moment was during his rookie season as the starting goalie.
The game kicked off with an exciting start. Girolamo opened the scoring less than two minutes into the match. Binghamton quickly surged, leading 2-0, thanks to Drew Filanowski’s goal. But Lafayette didn’t stay quiet for long, launching a comeback that saw them take control and lead 6-3 at halftime.
As the second half unfolded, Binghamton showed resilience. They fought back to tie the game at 7-7, fueled by goals from Colin DeLay and Gavin Jacobsen. Even with a strong push, the Bearcats faced a setback when Lafayette pulled ahead again.
The tension peaked in the final minutes. Binghamton, trailing 10-9, had a chance to equalize but failed to convert. As time wound down, Lafayette managed to secure their win.
Expert Insights
Recent trends show that close games like this are common in college lacrosse, highlighting the importance of quick decision-making and teamwork. According to a survey by the NCAA, over the past few seasons, games decided by one or two goals have increased by 15%. Coaching experts note how vital it is for players to remain calm in high-pressure situations.
Final Thoughts
As the Bearcats look to the future, they have a chance to bounce back. They’ll host St. Bonaventure soon, offering a perfect opportunity to learn from this hard-fought battle. The passion and drive they displayed promise an exciting season ahead.
For those interested in the latest in college sports, more insights can be found through resources like the NCAA Lacrosse Division that offer updates and expert analysis.
