Men s Lacrosse

St. Marys Likes Their Odds After Winning Big in Reno

By: JD Lanigan

While their pockets weren t any fatter after a weekend in the Biggest Little City in The World, the St. Marys lacrosse team s first trip to Reno a huge success. In a game with major playoff implications, the Gaels knocked off division leading Nevada-Reno 19-8, delivering a statement to the league that they are ready to defend their Division B Title.

Crossing the state line for their first ever meeting against their new divisional rival, the Gaels faced some unsettling questions. First was how to handle the surprising Wolfpack, who had shocked the league by sitting atop the division in their inaugural season. UNR had posted impressive wins with their high-octane offense and by wearing down visitors who came unprepared to compete in the high altitude.

But the biggest questions the Gaels faced were about themselves. After beginning a season with high expectations to repeat as Division B Champions, St. Marys got off to a slow start before warming up mid-season. As a result, they faced their final regular season games against Reno (and U.O.P. on April 21) needing two wins to ensure a return to the playoffs.

The answer to their internal questions came in the form of a complete game victory against Reno - the likes of which the Gaels had been expecting all season. To diffuse the potent Reno attack, SMC played an effective game of ball-control, saving their wind for fighting for ground balls and riding. The game was controlled mostly by long-stick midfielders Nolan Arieta and attackman Pat Opperman. Nolan earned the game ball by applying stifling pressure at midfield in riding situations, and showed why he is nicknamed Hoover by wining numerous ground balls with his all-out hustle.

On offense, Pat Opperman showed why he has become one of the biggest forces in the league. Pat racked up 7 goals and an assist, dominating Reno with his great stick skills and physical style of play. Freshman attackman Willie Schaeffler had another solid game with 4 goals and an assist. Kevin Donlon delivered the type of all-around play Gael fans have come to expect - providing great defense, winning face-offs, and popping in 4 goals.

The win against Reno has the Gaels gelling at the right time. The previous week, St. Mary s held a late 6-4 lead against Division I powerhouse Cal before falling 10-6. SMC built upon lessons learned against the Bears by knocking off previously undefeated Boise State three days later, providing momentum for their showdown against Reno.

St. Marys hosts U.O.P in their final regular season game on Saturday, April 21. A win against the Tigers assures the Gaels of a play-off berth and another run at the WCLL Division B crown.

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