The Bearcats’ first road game of the season against Villanova saw no restraint of offensive power from both teams as they battled back and forth for the win.
Villanova University (1-1) defeated Binghamton University (1-2) 15-12 this past Tuesday at Villanova Stadium, sending the Bearcats back home with two straight losses. Though Binghamton improved its offensive game with the highest number of goals scored this season, it was not enough to top the reigning Big East champions.
The high-scoring game’s pace was set by alternating bursts of offense, with both teams contributing to the fray. The Villanova Wildcats drew first blood, scoring three goals in the first eight minutes, but Binghamton quickly answered back with four of its own, taking control of the first quarter.
The Bearcats’ lead was short-lived, as Villanova stepped up its offense during the second quarter with four consecutive goals. The Bearcats did not score again until there were nearly three minutes left until halftime. Though two more Binghamton goals pulled the score to 7-6 by the half, their offensive output decreased and their defense struggled. They were outshot 23-12 in the second and third quarters.
Following two offensively unproductive quarters, Binghamton had a resurgence of power in the last period, scoring four goals and outshooting Villanova, 13-7. Freshman attack Matt Springer led the team with six goals, tying the school record previously held by Stephen Smith since April 1, 2006.
Even with boost in offense, the Bearcats could not stop the Wildcats’ momentum. Villanova matched every Binghamton goal made in the fourth quarter, preventing them from gaining ground. Binghamton was outshot 40-33, with 21 turnovers for the game.
The Bearcats head home this weekend to face No. 35 Drexel (2-1) in a non-conference game, with hopes of stopping the losing skid.
Binghamton is set to play the Drexel Dragons on Saturday 1 p.m. at the Bearcats Sports Complex.