Feb 6 - Lubbock, TX – The SMU Men’s Lacrosse team (1-0) broke away with 11 second-half goals as they opened the 2010 season against division rival Texas Tech (0-1). The Mustangs' 2009 regular season loss to the Red Raiders was still fresh in their minds as they took the field displaying both selfless balance on offense and renewed enthusiasm on defense in the 15 – 5 victory. Offensively, SMU was lead by senior attackman Tolar Hamblen (Episcopal Houston, TX) who tallied 4 goals and 4 assists while junior midfielder Brian Cozzolino (Dana Hills Club, CA) added 4 goals. Eight other Mustangs earned tallies in the scorer’s book. On the defensive half of the field, the Mustangs brought intensity to the game that has been missing in prior season openers. Senior goalie David Perrin (The Westminster Schools, GA) recorded 9 saves in the first half of play while the defense as a whole scooped up an impressive 38 ground balls. SMU received contributions from a number of first year players with a goal from freshman attackman Connor Tetrault (The Potomac School, DC) as well as key defensive plays from freshman defensemen Cam Banta (Woodberry Forrest, NJ) and freshman LSM John Potts (Strake Jesuit, TX). With the game tied at 3 late in the second quarter, senior captain Tolar Hamblen scored the go-ahead goal on transition with seconds remaining in the half. The Mustangs broke the game open in the third quarter and found success on extra-man situations as Texas Tech was unfortunately penalized for fan conduct. The Texas Tech Red Raider team was lead by junior attackman Willie Sterner (Kingwood, TX) and sophomore attackman Neil Gordon (The Woodlands, TX) who scored two goals apiece. The SMU Mustangs face division foe Oklahoma State University (0-0) this Saturday in Dallas.
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