GCU Lax Closes Season with Dramatic 12-11 Win

The Grand Canyon University lacrosse team closed out their 2011 season in dramatic fashion today, winning 12-11 over Dominican (CA) at GCU Field in Phoenix.

The win closes out GCU’s overall record at 4-10, 3-5 in the Western Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association. Dominican falls to 4-8 and 4-3 in the WILA.

It was the second meeting between the two schools this season, with Dominican winning 12-11 in overtime on March 26 in Orinda, Calif.

The ‘Lopes built a 9-2 lead after three periods, but had to hold off a frantic fourth period rally that saw the Penguins score nine goals on 30 shots. Dominican scored the game’s final seven goals, including the last four in just over one minute.

The game started well for GCU as Jacob Hippensteel scored his first of two goals with a tally 20 seconds into the game. Kyle Bailey increased the lead to 2-0 with a goal just under four minutes into the period.

After a Penguin goal, Kahai Sibley and Hippensteel scored to give the ‘Lopes a 4-1 lead after the first frame.

GCU dominated the second quarter, outscoring the Penguins 2-0 and outshooting them 14-4. Sibley and Brad Lattanzio scored for the Antelopes in the period.

Konner Klein, the lone senior for GCU and playing in his final game, scored two third period goals, including an exciting behind the back goal with 10:15 remaining in the third.

Sibley, who finished the game with six points, scored a pair of fourth period goals, including one with 8:32 left in the game that gave GCU what seemed to be an insurmountable 12-4 lead.

GCU was hit with six fourth period penalties that led to three-man up goals in the Dominican rally.

Andrew Hunter started in goal and made 22 saves in picking up the win.

Grand Canyon was outshot 50-34, but won the ground ball battle 38-29.

The University announced last month that the lacrosse team will begin competing in the MCLA next season.

GCU 12 DOM 11

Grand Canyon University Athletics

Related News

Related News

Related Videos