Second Half Rally Secures Comeback Win Against Aquinas

Athens, TN - Reinhardt Men's Lacrosse traveled to the campus of Tennessee Wesleyan on Friday to face the #8 ranked Aquinas College Saints. The Eagles made a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat the Saints with a final score of 9-6. This game highlighted the Eagles' resilience and never-say-die spirit to keep themselves in the hunt for the national title run.

The first half saw the Saints leading 5-2, putting pressure on the Eagles. However, the tide turned in the second half when Reinhardt outscored Aquinas by seven goals to two, showcasing a formidable display of teamwork and skill. Key players like Benjamin Shackelford, who netted two significant goals, and Joey Amatulli, who provided three assists, played pivotal roles in the Eagles' victory. Cameron Ison's power-play goal in the last period was the game-winning shot that ensured a hard-fought victory for Reinhardt.

The Saints actually scored the first goal of the second half just two minutes into the third quarter, but the Eagles buckled down defensively and did not allow another goal for the remainder of the game.  This allowed the attack the chance to get their game going, led by Shackelford and Luke Greer.  The scoring was very balanced as the final seven goals were by different individuals.  Reid McDowell, Marshall Cisco, Tyrique Robinson, Cameron Ison, Greer, and Shackelford.  Shackelford's two goals came in the final run of the game.

Goalie Ethan Rogers' performance was also critical in keeping the Eagles in the game while holding the Saints scoreless for twenty-eight minutes. Rogers had nine saves from the Saints fifteen shots on goal.

Looking ahead, the Eagles are preparing to face the #1 ranked Keiser Seahawks on Friday, March 28, in Waleska, aiming to maintain their strong season record, which now stands impressively at 7-1. This is always an anticipated NAIA battle that not only has two top AAC Opponents facing each other but also has two of the top five teams in the NAIA facing off.  The game is set for 1 pm at Ken White Field, and no doubt will be the game of the week on the campus of Reinhardt University.