Cornell University’s men’s lacrosse team defeated Princeton University 13-11 at Sherrerd Field on March 21, extending its winning streak over the Tigers to seven games and improving its season record to 5-2 overall and 2-0 in Ivy League play.
The game saw Cornell take an early lead with five goals in the first quarter, including back-to-back scores from Matthew Perfetto and Luke Gilmartin within eight seconds. Although Princeton narrowed the gap to 5-4 by the end of the quarter, Cornell responded by expanding its advantage to 9-4 before halftime. A buzzer-beater goal by Ryan Goldstein gave Cornell a three-goal cushion at the break.
Princeton attempted a comeback in the third quarter, scoring two quick goals, but Cornell answered with three consecutive goals from Brian Luzzi, Luke Robinson, and Willem Firth. The Tigers closed within two late in the game, but Goldstein’s goal off a Firth assist with just over three minutes remaining secured the victory for Cornell. Goalie Matt Tully made 15 saves against a Princeton offense that took 43 shots.
Goldstein led Cornell with three goals and one assist, surpassing head coach Connor Buczek for 16th all-time in career points at Cornell with his four-point performance. Firth contributed two goals and three assists, marking his fourth game this season with at least five points. Perfetto added two goals and an assist, while Robinson and Luzzi each had a goal and an assist.
The win brings Cornell’s all-time record against Princeton to 45-42-2. Michael Melkonian recorded double-digit faceoff wins for only the second time in his career. For Princeton, Tucker Wade scored three goals while Chad Palumbo and Colin Burns each added two.
Looking ahead, Cornell will host Yale on March 28 to close out March. The Big Red holds a historical edge over Yale with a record of 57-30-1 overall and has won 31 of their previous meetings at Schoellkopf Field.
