The Hamilton Southeastern Royals boys varsity lacrosse took on the Cathedral Fighting Irish April. 22, 2022. It was a game everyone had been waiting for. HSE No. 1 vs Cathedral No. 2.

Heading into the game, the Irish were considered the underdogs and HSE was indeed favored to win. It was going to be an exciting matchup either way. It was important to control the tempo of the game, and time-of-possession was going to be key.

“The Royals and Irish squared off in the state’s biggest matchup under Friday nigh lights,” head coach Scott Beesley said. “It was everything as advertised. A hard-fought game between two great programs. The Irish helped close the game out in the 2nd and 4th quarters. Outscoring the Royals 5-2 in the 2nd quarter and 4-3 in the 4th quarter.”

Both teams had very talented offenses. According to head coach Scott Beesley:

“The key players of the attack are #4 Garrett Smith (Sr) who is committed to Ohio Wesleyan University, 1st Team All-Conference 2021, and the Captain and leader of the offense. #7 Michael Mattaliano (Sr) committed to Lander University is a big time scorer. During last years matchup against Cathedral he had a hat trick.

#15 Connor Ruhnow (Sr) dominates the midfield. Ruhnow broke his tibia last fall during football season, had 6 months of recovery and rehabilitation and is back to full contact and maximum strength. Also in the midfield, #8 Logan Askins (Sr) is the quickest on the team. He’s shifty with a great shot on the run.

Captain and biggest vocal leader,#6 Quincy Grace 1st Team All-Conference 2021 is an all-around stud lacrosse player. He is great in transition and is not afraid to let the ball fly.

LSM or Close D, #21 Hayden Grace is amazing in the open field and matching feet with his man. He is great on ground balls and may even take some face offs for the team. He is vocal and leader the team very well.”

“Although HSE outshot the Irish 26-29, their conversation rate was not as effective,” Beesley said. “Royals fall to 7-5 on the season.”

The Irish defeated the Royals with a final score of 13-10. The Royals next game will be played on Wednesday May 4, 2022. Story by Izzy Kistler.