BUFFALO, N.Y. — D'Youville men's lacrosse (4-1) secured a decisive 20-14 victory over Holy Family University at Dobson Field on Wednesday.

The game commenced with D'Youville facing off against HFU, and it quickly turned competitive. After HFU scored the first goal at 13:34, the Saints responded strongly. Stefano Evan equalized with a goal assisted by Obrigh Tallchief at 10:19. Tallchief then put DYU ahead with an unassisted goal at 8:47.

D'Youville gained momentum with Carsyn Kent and Raymond Cortes adding to the lead, pushing the score to 4-1. A goal by Brady Ruffalo, assisted by Evan, extended the lead further. DYU capitalized on a man-up opportunity with Evan scoring again, assisted by Tallchief, making it 6-1. Although the Tigers narrowed the gap with two quick goals, the Saints closed the quarter with goals from Graham Sholett and Tallchief, ending the first quarter with an 8-3 lead.

DYU capitalized on several key plays in the second quarter, beginning with Kent's goal at 12:45, assisted by Tallchief, which leveled the score after HFU's initial man-up advantage. The Saints continued to press, with Teighen Fils-Aime finding the net shortly after, again benefiting from an assist by Tallchief. As the quarter progressed, Ruffalo scored with 3:24 remaining, adding to D'Youville's tally. Evan capped the quarter with a crucial goal at 18 seconds remaining, reaffirming DYU's lead. The quarter ended with D'Youville leading the Tigers 12-7.

The Saints began the third quarter with momentum, winning the opening faceoff and quickly converting it into a goal by Sholett at 13:45. Despite HFU's efforts, including a goal at 11:54, D'Youville continued to press forward with Noah Suchyna scoring at 7:20, assisted by Evan, extending their lead. Evan added another goal with an assist from Cortes at 5:26, maintaining D'Youville's advantage.

HFU responded with two goals, narrowing the gap, but DYU secured the quarter with Tallchief scoring at 1:43. The Saints' defensive efforts, including multiple saves by Casey Berns, helped them hold off HFU's attempts. The quarter concluded with D'Youville leading 16-10.

D'Youville showcased a strong fourth quarter, beginning with a goal by Jake Bush at 13:18. Despite HFU's replies, including a man-up goal, D'Youville maintained its momentum. Evan scored another crucial goal at 6:23, and Sholett added to the tally with a goal at 1:20. Tallchief then capitalized on an extra-man opportunity, scoring at 0:27 with an assist from Cortes. The game concluded with D'Youville securing a 20-14 victory.

Tallchief led the team with four goals and four assists, showcasing his offensive capability. Evan contributed significantly with five goals and two assists, including the game-winning goal. Sholett added three goals on seven shots, maintaining a strong presence in the attack. Berns was crucial in goal, recording 18 saves to keep the team competitive.

The next challenge for D'Youville is a road game against Saint Michael's College. The matchup is set for noon on Sunday, March 8 in Colchester, Vermont.