MLAX falls to Providence, 12-8

Box Score (PDF)

MILWAUKEE - The Marquette University men's lacrosse team fell to Providence, 12-8, in a BIG EAST Conference matchup Saturday at Valley Fields.

It was a low-scoring affair through halftime, as the Friars led just 4-3 heading into the midway point of the game.

Despite a half-opening goal from Devon Cowan, Providence (3-3, 2-2 BIG EAST) went on a four-goal run to close the third frame and carried an 8-4 advantage into the final period.

MU tried to muster a fourth quarter comeback, receiving four tallies from four different scorers in the frame, but two late goals from Providence gave the Friars their third win of the season.

Griffin Fleming led the way for MU with four points on a hat trick and an assist, while five other players added a goal. Connor McClelland notched two assists, while Cowan and freshman Russell Melendez each added a helper.

Sean Richard had a career-high 16 saves in the cage for Marquette on his way to 57.1% between the pipes. Thomas Washington won four faceoffs for MU and Jack Devine won three.

Redshirt freshman Mason Woodward led the Golden Eagles with seven ground balls and four caused turnovers, while Jacob Hallam put up four ground balls and defenseman Zach Granger contributed three caused turnovers.

Marquette's defense caused 10 turnovers in the game and the Golden Eagles went 22-of-24 on clears.

For Providence, Matt Grillo spearheaded the effort with five goals and Ryan Zimmerman totaled six points on a goal and five assists. RJ Romeo went 17-for-23 at the faceoff dot, scooping up seven ground balls, while netminder Toby Burgdorf tallied 14 saves in net.

Marquette (0-4, 0-4 BIG EAST) will now prepare for its lone non-conference tilt of the season against No. 9 Notre Dame on St. Patrick's Day at Arlotta Stadium.

Keep up with the Marquette men's lacrosse program through social media by following on Twitter (@MarquetteMLax) and Instagram (@MarquetteMLax) and 'liking' on Facebook (/MarquetteMLax).