Box Score
RIVERDALE, N.Y. - The Jaspers scored the only four goals of the second half to come away with a convincing 11-6 win over the Monmouth Hawks in Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) play on Saturday night. With the win, Manhattan improves to 4-9 overall, including 2-2 against conference opponents.
Jaspers senior Ryan Payton netted the first two goals of the third quarter to give Manhattan a 9-6 lead. Payton had a game-high five goals in the contest. Junior Andrew Hurst and senior long stick midfielder Sean McMahon also tallied for the Jaspers in the third quarter. That ended up being more offense than the team would need, as it was the stout Manhattan defense that took care of the rest.
The Jaspers held a 40-30 edge in ground balls in the game. Many of Monmouth's attempts on cage in the second half were from wide areas, and senior starting goalkeeper Rich Akapnitis played very well, recording nine saves on the evening. Senior William Murphy also played well in goal for Manhattan and made four big saves over the final six minutes of the night.
Senior Brett Madarasz scored twice and had an assist in the game. Junior Marcel Godino also had a goal and an assist for the Jaspers.
Senior Brett Johnson put together another solid performance at the faceoff X, winning 14 of 19 draws. He also collected a game-high six ground balls.
For Monmouth, Chris Daly and Eric Berger led the squad with two tallies apiece. Dan Bloodgood picked up a team-high five ground balls. Midfielder Reed Zak caused three turnovers to lead the team in that category.
The Jaspers return to action on Saturday, April 19, when they welcome the Detroit Titans to Gaelic Park. The opening draw is scheduled for 1 p.m.
