BOX SCORE

DENVER, Colo. – The second time didn't work either as the Westminster men's lacrosse team saw the 2009 season come to an end with a 16-5 loss to St. Thomas in the quarterfinals of the MCLA National Tournament. Westminster came up short in its attempt to defend the national championship they won in 2008.

Westminster scored the first goal of the game just 2:08 into the first quarter when Gian Sexsmith found the back of the net. St. Thomas responded with the next six goals of the game and carried a 9-2 lead into the halftime break. The second half saw much of the same as Westminster also three goals in the second 30 minutes and never threatened the No. 2 seed.

“We got handled by an experienced, well coached team,” Westminster head coach Mason Goodhand said. “They took advantage of some early mistakes and converted them with precision.”

Sexsmith finished the night with three goals to lead all Griffins. Ricky Larkin and Jake Wayman also struck for Westminster in defeat.

“We have some young warriors on this squad and this experience will help them the next time they step on the field with caliber of an opponent,” Goodhand commented.

Joe Castello led St. Thomas with his four goals. Cooper Mazon and Andrew Larson added three goals apiece for the Tommies.

Westminster finishes the year at 12-8 overall and advances to the quarterfinals for the third time in as many years. They also won their RMLC division for the third consecutive year.