Irvine, Calif - The Concordia University Irvine men's lacrosse team delivered one of its most complete performances of the season Thursday night, defeating Northwest Nazarene 19–6 at Golden Eagles Field on Military Appreciation Night. Backed by a fast start and a balanced offensive attack, the Golden Eagles improved to 3-4 on the season in front of a crowd of 246 in Irvine.
CUI wasted little time establishing control, scoring six goals in the opening quarter to take a commanding 6-1 lead. Jack Lepore opened the scoring just 45 seconds into the game off an assist from Noah Pillow, and the Golden Eagles never looked back. Nolan Taylor and Jeremy Barnes followed with goals to extend the early advantage, while Dustin Hotchkiss and Erik Hollis added late scores to cap a dominant first period.
The Golden Eagles continued to build their lead in the second quarter. Hotchkiss scored again early in the frame, and Pillow found the net midway through the period on a feed from Barnes. CUI added another late goal before halftime to take a 9-2 lead into the break, firmly in control of the contest.
Concordia's offense exploded again in the third quarter with six more goals. Pillow played a key role during the stretch, setting up multiple scores and adding one of his own. Goals from Matt Carresi, Dawson Loudermilk, Jake Soliday, and Taylor helped push the Golden Eagles' lead to double digits as the offense continued to fire from all angles.
CUI closed the night with four goals in the fourth quarter, highlighted by another strike from Pillow and a goal from Joey Switzer off an assist from Ryan Tabor. Hollis and Barnes added the final touches in the closing minute to seal the emphatic 19-6 victory.
The Golden Eagles showcased a balanced offensive effort with multiple players contributing. Jeremy Barnes and Noah Pillow each recorded three goals to lead the attack, while Hollis and Hotchkiss added two apiece. Lepore, Carresi, Soliday, Loudermilk, Switzer, and Taylor also found the back of the net as Concordia spread the scoring across the lineup.
Northwest Nazarene was led by Colton Altimus, who recorded three goals, but the Golden Eagles' defense limited the Nighthawks' offensive opportunities for most of the evening.
The win was made even more meaningful as Concordia honored members of the military during the special Military Appreciation Night celebration at Golden Eagles Field. With the victory, the Golden Eagles carry momentum forward as they continue their early-season schedule.
NEXT UP:
CUI will head to Colorado for a two game road-trip playing Adams State and Colorado Mesa before returning home to play the Dominican Penguins on Saturday, March 28th.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE FULL CUI MEN'S LACROSSE SCHEDULE
