For the first game of the season, Penn State Men’s Lacrosse had an awesome showing. The Nittany Lions were absolutely on point, and did not hesitate to welcome their rival Michigan to Happy Valley with the 6-0 lead they claimed in the first five minutes of play.
The team led the first period with eight goals against the Wolverines, and Kaut was strong in goal and did not allow Michigan to score during the first period.
Although Kaut had an incredible amount of saves during the game and definitely was key in the early success of the Nittany Lions, the star of the game was Senior #3 Shane Sturgis. Sturgis had a career-high six goals this game, and this was the most goals Penn State has scored in a single game since 1994. Sturgis’ goals were also the highest scored by a player in a single game since 2009.
Sophomore #29 TJ Sanders also had quite the game scoring five goals for the second time in his career. Sanders is definitely going to be a player to watch this season as the sophomore had a great pre-season performance as well.
Michigan’s Ian King scored the first goal that stopped the Nittany Lion’s hopes of a shutout in the second period, but the Wolverines’ morale was quickly shot down after a few more PSU goals.
Michigan’s freshman goalie Robbie Zonino worked hard in the goal, but his defenders couldn’t keep up with the fast pace of PSU’s offense.
Michigan’s increase in goal scoring in the second half was due to coach Tambroni’s decision to give the starters a rest and put in other players. Goalkeeper Connor Darcey (redshirt freshman) made an appearance in the second half making four saves and allowing four of Michigan goals.
The atmosphere in Holuba Hall was unmatched today, complete with cowbell and chants after every Penn State goal. The competitive PSU Michigan rivalry brought 729 spectators to the game, and the final score was Penn State 22, Michigan 7.
