Box Score

The Muhlenberg men's lacrosse team fell behind early and, despite a fourth-quarter surge, could not catch up, dropping its season opener to Susquehanna, 12-10.

The Crusaders, who won their conference championship and played in the NCAA Tournament each of the last two years, scored two goals in the first three minutes and led 5-2 after one and 9-6 at the half.

Three third-period goals made it 12-6, but the Mule defense pitched a shutout from then on, keeping Susquehanna off the board for the final 21:55.

Unassisted fourth-quarter goals by junior Steven Casella, freshman Niko Del Moro and seniors Jason Mertz and John Hetzel, the last with 6:07 remaining, brought Muhlenberg to within two goals. The Mules took five more shots but could not score again.

Senior Connor Winter (pictured above) notched his first career hat trick, scoring three goals - one more than his career total entering the season. Hetzel, who had one career point in his first three years, added two goals and an assist. Senior Michael Heenan scored a goal and picked up a career-high eight ground balls.

Del Moro scored a pair of goals and was one of several freshmen who impressed in their collegiate debut. Jake Solomon won nine of 18 faceoffs, while Kevin Bergenty started on defense and caused four turnovers.