Villanova University

March 13, 2007

Box Score

Villanova, Pa. - The Wildcats of Villanova scored eight of their 10 goals in the second half to clinch a 10-4 victory over the Hawks of Saint Joseph's at Villanova Stadium. Due to a barrage of scoring, which ignited in the third period, Villanova improves their season record to 3-2, as Saint Joseph's falls to 0-6.

Villanova came out of the gates strong, netting two goals in the first seven minutes of play. Senior Eric Heidenberger kicked things off when he hurled a shot into the top right side of the net. He was followed closely by sophomore Matthew Fritts, who scooped up a lose ball in front of the net and slung it over his shoulder past the feet of Saint Joseph's goalie Erik Hotaling. The Hawks answered with two goals of their own during the second period, but were quickly silenced at the start of the third.

After a scoreless second period, the Wildcats launched an offensive surge that would prove to be too much for the Hawks to handle. In the first three minutes alone, Villanova out shot Saint Joseph's by a 7-0 margin. Heidenberger initiated the ambush as he maneuvered his way through the Hawk's defense to notch his second goal of the game. Junior Chris MacDonald then scored his first of three when he converted a pass from classmate Tim Atkins. Senior Mike Haas added to Villanova's lead in the final three minutes making the score 5-2 heading into the fourth period.

After not registering a single shot for the third period, Saint Joseph's attempted to mount an offensive attack. With the help of Chris O'Neill, Steve O'Brien was able cut the goal deficit to two. However, Villanova answered with unassisted goals from Chris Colliniates and Andy German, making the score 7-3. Despite one more defensive break down, Villanova controlled the remainder of the game tallying the final three goals to put the game well out of reach. Haas recorded his second goal of the night, while MacDonald scored his final two, rewarding him with a hat trick.

The Wildcats held advantages across the board, as they out shot the Hawks 40-9, collected 25 groundballs to the Hawks' 19, and won 12 of 17 face-offs. Due to Villanova's defensive prowess, goalie Andrew DiLoreto only faced nine shots and amassed three saves.

Catch the Wildcats in action this Saturday, March 17 as they host Lehigh University at 1 p.m. in the Villanova Stadium.