CARY, N.C. – In a back-and-forth thriller at WakeMed Park, William Peace University men's lacrosse fell just short against Husson University, 17-16, in a high-scoring contest on Sunday afternoon. Despite leading for much of the game, a late comeback by the Eagles handed the Pacers their second loss of the season.
William Peace (1-1) came out strong, taking an early 4-3 lead after the first quarter, powered by goals from Jamar Bell (4 goals, 2 assists) and William English (3 goals, 2 assists). The Pacers extended their advantage in the second quarter, as Caleb Trahan (3 goals, 1 assist) and Brandon Goad (2 goals, 1 assist) added some breathing room. By halftime, WPU held an 8-6 lead.
The second half saw momentum swings for both teams. WPU's Quinn Acree (3 goals) came hot off the bench on offense, while Bell continued his stellar play with a man-up goal early in the third. However, Husson (2-1) responded with goals from Nolan Humphreys, Kiernan Field, and Sean Lyne, keeping the game within reach.
Despite a strong defensive effort by goalie Dylan Sullivan (9 saves), Husson capitalized on key possessions, outshooting the Pacers 49-37 and dominating faceoffs 28-7.
"Give Husson a lot of credit, they played hard and made plays when they needed to." WPU Head Coach Troy Humphrey said after the game. "On our end, the boys played hard, a few down with injuries and sickness, but they never quit! The old cliche...ground balls and turnovers, they'll kill you every time."
WPU reclaimed the lead late in the fourth quarter, as English found the net off an assist from Bell with 4:48 remaining, putting the Pacers ahead 16-15. However, Husson stormed back in the final minutes.
The Eagles tied the game with 1:27 to play, and with just 14 seconds remaining, Drew Held buried the game-winner off an assist from Owen Giorgio to seal the heartbreaking loss for WPU.
The Pacers are back in action at WakeMed park to host Randolph College on March 12th for a 1 PM match up.
