Alamosa, Colo. — The Adams State men's lacrosse team dropped a 19-4 decision to No. 12 Colorado Mesa University on Saturday afternoon.
The Grizzlies (0-2) struck first, as Malik Maxwell found the back of the net at the 10:45 mark of the opening quarter to give Adams State an early 1-0 lead. The Mavericks responded quickly, however, scoring three goals in the final nine minutes of the first to take a 3-1 advantage into the second quarter.
Colorado Mesa used a strong second period to create separation, netting four goals in the frame to extend the lead to 7-1 at halftime. The Mavericks capitalized on extra-man opportunities throughout the afternoon, finishing 3-for-6 with the man advantage.
Adams State showed fight in the third quarter, getting goals from Tre Williams and Danny Joy. Williams scored unassisted at the 10:39 mark before assisting on Joy's goal less than five minutes later. Despite the push, Colorado Mesa answered with six goals in the period to take a 13-3 lead into the final quarter.
Jamal Wilson added the Grizzlies' final goal midway through the fourth.
Maxwell, Williams, Joy and Wilson each scored once for Adams State, with Williams tallying the team's lone assist. Hunter Bennett led the defensive effort with seven ground balls and four caused turnovers. In goal, Ryan Berger recorded 15 saves while facing 54 shots.
As a team, the Grizzlies collected 25 ground balls and went 18-for-23 on clears.
Adams State will look to bounce back in its next outing as it continues early-season play.