Wheeling, W. Va. – After a break from conference action, the Cardinals faced Lake Erie College in a closely contested game that ended in a narrow 9-8 loss. Both teams had equal shots on goal, but Lake Erie clinched victory with a crucial goal late in the match.
The game started well for Wheeling as they maintained control early on. They took the first three shots, and Dakota Strong seized a rebound to score the opener, putting the Cardinals in the lead at 1-0. The defense held strong, led by goalie Austin Hall, who made four key saves. With just over five minutes left in the first quarter, Dakota Strong set up Brenner Chase, who scored and extended the lead to 2-0. The Cardinals ended the quarter ahead.
The momentum shifted in the second quarter. Despite Wheeling’s strong start, Lake Erie scored their first goal via a connection between Joey Ellison and John Collins, tying the game later on. Wheeling answered with goals from Dylan Lavern and Brenner Chase, ensuring they remained competitive. At halftime, Wheeling had a slight edge at 4-3.
The third quarter brought excitement, with Lake Erie equalizing early. Wheeling responded effectively, with Dakota Strong passing to Brenner Chase, who netted another goal, putting the Cardinals ahead 5-4. The back-and-forth battle continued, and the teams entered the final quarter tied at 5-5.
Lake Erie took the lead early in the last quarter. However, Wheeling displayed resilience. Dylan Lavern fed Ty Taylor for a goal, tying the game once more. Just moments later, Brenner Chase scored again, putting Wheeling in the lead at 7-6. Unfortunately, Lake Erie surged back, scoring two goals and taking a 9-6 advantage.
Wheeling refused to back down. In the final minutes, Lavern scored again, narrowing the gap to 9-8. Though the Cardinals had a chance to tie, they couldn’t get a shot off before the final whistle, marking their first GMAC loss.
Dylan Lavern and Brenner Chase shone for the Cardinals, each scoring thrice and adding an assist. Chase has now scored multiple goals in three consecutive games. Dakota Strong contributed notably with two assists. On defense, Jack Rowe and Adam Zdanowicz each caused three turnovers, while goalie Austin Hall recorded nine saves.
The Wheeling University Men’s Lacrosse team is set to return to play against Walsh on Saturday, March 15, at 1 PM. The Cardinals are aiming to bounce back and improve their conference record.
