Granville, Ohio- In its 14th showdown since 2011, the Denison University men's lacrosse team defeated No. 4 Washington and Lee in front of an energetic home crowd. The Big Red improved to 3-1 overall, while the Generals suffered their first loss of the season, dropping to 2-1.

Washington and Lee struck first, taking an early two-goal lead within the first five minutes of play. Keeping their composure, Denison answered with a pair of their own, the first goal was an unassisted goal by Collin Murphy following an unsuccessful clear attempt by the Generals. Less than two minutes later Macky Peck collected a pass from Jack Moellering in a man-up opportunity to tie the game at two.

The back-and-forth scoring between the two teams resulted in nine ties and seven lead changes throughout the matchup. Denison's tenacity to score helped the Big Red remain on top at the end of each quarter; however, Washington and Lee's gritty play would always find a way to tie the game back up. With five minutes left in regulation, an unassisted rocket of a goal by Drew Merschell put the Big Red up 13-12. A minute later, senior Tommy Quinson gave Denison a two-goal cushion to put the game away. The Big Red locked down their opponents in the final minutes of play and in the end Denison's methodical playing style, aggressive defense and versatile scoring lifted the Big Red past their top-ranked opponent. 

The Generals held a 45 to 36 edge in shots and a 33-22 advantage in ground balls collected. Despite Washington and Lee's ability to possess the ball throughout the game, Denison's efficiency when they had the ball proved to be much more effective, ultimately giving them the win.

Macky Peck led the charge for Denison, who finished the day with four goals, followed by Murphy with three. Michael Cassidy and Quinson each netted two goals, while Anthony Savoy, Graham Harris, and Merschel each scored a goal. Quinson paced the team in caused turnovers with three, while Grant Larson, Colin Swanson, and Colin MacLean each grabbed three groundballs for the day.

In goal for Denison was Albert Andrew who finished the day with 11 saves, while Washington and Lee's Nick De Cain totaled six saves.

Up Next
The Big Red return to Granville, on Sunday, March 9, to take on #18 Lynchburg at 1 p.m.