Western films don’t have as many shots as were fired Saturday at Grand Valley State University’s athletic fields. The GVSU lacrosse team came out gunning against the University of Dayton, ranked No. 7 in the Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse Association’s Division II, to win 21-13 and continue its undefeated season.

“They were the first big opponent we have played in a while,” said junior Jack Dumsa. “We knew we had to come out hard because we have played competition that is not top-tier lately. We had to play better because we have to get in the rhythm of playing tough competition again.”

The Flyers struck first to take an early lead. The Lakers then picked up the next face-off and put it in the back of the net to tie it up. The action continued to go back and forth until the second quarter when both teams finally settled into their groove.

“We started off pretty quick,” said senior Cam Holding. “It was 11-11 at one point, then we kicked it in to the way we know how to play. At halftime, Jack Dumsa said a couple things, and after that everyone seemed to pick it up. He brought some real positive energy in the locker room that helped out.”

The offense played a strong game, which helped out the defense as the wear and tear of the game took its toll.

“Our offense really possessed the ball, which gave our defense some time to collect themselves,” said junior Daniel Mac Donell. “Our defense definitely played well in the second half as far as extending pressure on the ball carriers. Our goalie, Alex Billings, made some great saves that sparked our run, too.”

The offense also took advantage of the troubles Dayton had throughout the game.

“Late in the game, our offense took advantage of our man-up opportunities,” Dumsa said. “We did a good job of capitalizing on their mistakes. They got frustrated and drew a lot of penalties. Some key plays down the stretch were when we pushed it when they were down on themselves. At the end of the third, we put two quick goals away, which carried momentum into the fourth.”

The win against a top-tier program will help the Lakers as they finish the regular season and head toward their conference and national tournaments.

“After the game, Coach [Murray] spoke on this that when the game was tied we stepped up our level of play to a level that we haven’t hit this season,” Mac Donnell said. “He talked about how we need to keep playing on that next level for the rest of the season. We have three regular season games left, then conference tournament, then the national tournament. To hit that second wind already is a good thing so we can pick up some momentum.”

The Lakers next play Tuesday at 5 p.m. against the Saints of Aquinas College.

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