ST. LOUIS - Missouri Baptist University men's lacrosse dropped its season opener Friday afternoon, falling 16-9 to Taylor University at Maryville University.
Three different Spartans found the back of the net, led by Matthew Lash, who made an impressive MBU debut after transferring from Adams State University. Lash tallied four goals, one assist, and a ground ball.
Joe Busselman added three goals, one assist, and a ground ball, while Ryan Metcalf contributed two goals and three ground balls.
Goalkeeper Ashton Scott recorded 23 saves while allowing 16 goals in the loss.
The Spartans jumped out to a quick 3-0 lead behind goals from Lash, Metcalf, and Busselman. However, the Trojans responded with four straight goals to take a 4-3 advantage.
Both teams traded goals in the first quarter before MBU regained a 6-5 lead heading into the second, courtesy of Busselman's second goal.
Taylor took control in the second quarter, scoring five unanswered goals to seize a 10-6 lead. The Trojans never looked back, maintaining their advantage en route to a 16-9 victory.
Up Next
MBU heads to Michigan for a three-game road trip, beginning March 8 at No. 7 Aquinas College.