The Geneseo men's lacrosse team, currently ranked ninth in the latest Division-III USILA poll, extended its winning streak to 12 games last weekend, finishing conference play undefeated and improving their record to 12-1 overall.
The Knights concluded their season with a win over Potsdam, 17-7. The Bears stayed close to Geneseo early in the game, but the Blue Knights pulled away in the second half. Potsdam tied the game at six in the middle of the second quarter before Geneseo outscored the Bears 9-1 in the second half, including 5-0 in the fourth quarter.
"Potsdam played really well in the first half. We came out a little flat," said head coach Jim Lyons. "They hung around and we had a nice second half, being able to pull away later in the game gives the team confidence."
Geneseo tightened up their defense in the second half, only allowing the one goal. Junior Dennis Contanza made 10 saves to secure the team's victory.
Senior Jim Fiacco, who had six goals and four assists throughout the game, led Geneseo's offense. Senior Mike Cintineo, who had four goals and an assist, and sophomore Craig Lange, who added three goals and a pair of assists, were also vital to the Blue Knights' victory.
With their undefeated regular season in conference play, the Blue Knights earned the top seed in the SUNYAC tournament.
Heading into postseason play, Lyons said the main thing the team hopes to improve upon is "playing a complete game, a full four quarters at both ends of the field." Lyons also stressed the need to "eliminate mistakes" and "play smart."
As they begin postseason play in the SUNYAC tournament against fourth seeded Plattsburgh later this week, Geneseo hopes to extend their winning streak and add a conference championship to their already stellar record.
[Editor's note: The Blue Knights defeated Plattsburgh 21-11 Wednesday evening in a home SUNYAC playoff game. With the win Geneseo advances to the conference championship, to be held at home Saturday, May 2 at 1 p.m. against No. 7 Cortland. The winner of the game receives an automatic bid to the NCAA Division III tournament.]