If you’ve never been to an IWU Men’s Lacrosse game, you’re missing out on quite the spectacle.
On Saturday afternoon, the former CCIW champions extended their four-game win streak with a victory over the Carthage Firebirds—defeating them for the 11th consecutive time.
Somewhat uncharacteristically, the Titans fell behind by three goals in the first quarter. But after fifth-year attack Ike Eastburn ended the scoring drought, the Titans surged ahead by the end of the first half, with goals from senior attack Weinburg, fifth-year mid/attack Gage Black, and junior defense Billy McHugh followed shortly after.
The second half of the game grew intense as both teams got physical. After a collision on the sideline during substitutions, the hits became more frequent. Tensions exploded when senior long stick middle Nick Horris was knocked over during a clearing attempt—his legs slashed by the Carthage offense, drawing a flag for the Firebirds.
The Titans didn’t give up on the play. McHugh recovered the ball and sliced through the Carthage defense before being pushed over as well, resulting in another penalty for the Firebirds. After the play, McHugh celebrated baiting Carthage into another flag by dancing down the field.
With the Firebirds two men down, the Titans capitalized on the opportunity and extended their lead. As the trash talk escalated, so did IWU’s momentum. Once the Titans went up by three in the fourth quarter, the damage was done.
The Titans are set to play Carroll during senior day and their last regular season CCIW matchup on Saturday, April 26 at Tucci Stadium at 12 p.m.
