AURORA, Ill. - The Illinois Wesleyan men's lacrosse team opened their 2017 season on Saturday, Feb. 18, but fell to Aurora University by a final score of 14-10. Senior Michael Julius scored a game-high four goals alongside one assist in the loss. 

Illinois Wesleyan took an early 5-4 lead in the first quarter, but were outscored by the Spartans in each of the remaining three quarters.

At halftime, the Titans trailed closely, 8-7, despite narrowly leading the Spartans in shots on goal 13-12. Aurora held the Titans scoreless in the third quarter en route to a 6-3 goal advantage in the second half.

Senior Tim Smith and junior James Maibuecher each notched two goals while junior Nick Winter and sophomore Bailey Marth tallied one apiece. Julius, Maibuecher, Winter, and sophomore J.C. Grabarek were responsible for the teams four assists. Grabarek led the team with eight ground balls and won 15-of-26 face-offs.

The Titans out-shot the Spartans 52-43, and bested them in ground balls (36-30) and face-offs (15-12).

Senior Steven Laduzinsky played all 60 minutes in goal and made 12 saves.

What's Next?
Illinois Wesleyan opens at home on Sunday, Feb. 26 against Hendrix College. Teams are set to face-off from Tucci Stadium at 12 p.m.