SAINT LEO, Fla. — Saint Leo men's lacrosse used a dominant fourth quarter surge to defeat the Florida Southern Moccasins men's lacrosse 15–13 overcoming a late deficit behind an outstanding offensive performance.
First Quarter:
Florida Southern came out fast, scoring three straight goals to take early control. Saint Leo answered late in the quarter with goals from seniors John Raucci and Aidan Knoetgen, trimming the deficit to 3–2 after one.
Second Quarter:
The Lions battled back in the second, tying the game at 3–3 on goal from senior Ben Baker before Knoetgen gave Saint Leo its first lead. The teams traded goals throughout the quarter, with sophomore Anderson Smith and junior Josh Peluse each finding the net. Florida Southern edged ahead late to take a 7–6 lead into halftime.
Third Quarter:
Florida Southern created separation in the third, building a 10–6 lead midway through the period. Saint Leo responded with a key run as junior Brayden Stellwagen, Anderson Smith, and Greg Palmer all scored to cut the deficit. Still, the Moccasins held an 11–9 advantage heading into the fourth.
Fourth Quarter:
Saint Leo took over in the final period with a six goal explosion. Greg Palmer and Anderson Smith quickly tied the game at 11–11, and Smith continued his dominant night with three more goals during the quarter. Knoetgen added a key assist during the run, and Smith sealed the game with his seventh goal in the final seconds, completing the comeback and securing the 15–13 victory.
Stat Leaders:
Saint Leo finished with 44 shots and 41 ground balls, controlling possession late and closing the game on a decisive run to stay perfect in conference play.
