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The Idaho men’s lacrosse team lost two conference games last weekend on the Palouse, but will host Washington State and Boise State, Saturday and Sunday at home.
The team got off to a slow start against Simon Fraser in Pullman Saturday and lost 14-7. Simon Fraser — ranked fifth in the nation — had 36 total shots on goal while Idaho had 22. Despite the loss, the team remains positive.
“We played them well considering how good they are and how good their program is,” Ben Lavigne said.
Jacob Ballard and Krieger Shaw led the team with two goals each, but Ben Towner of Simon Fraser couldn’t be stopped and scored five goals. Last season, the Vandals lost to Simon Fraser 29-2, one of the largest deficits in college lacrosse history.
With less than a day of rest, Idaho played in its first conference home game of the season against the University of Washington Sunday and lost 17-8.
The first half was dominated by fast breaks by both teams, and at halftime, Idaho trailed 10-7.
In the second half, Idaho tried to slow the pace, but penalties allowed Washington to capitalize.
Idaho coach Ryan Hanavan said it was a domino effect. As the scoring deficit increased, penalties continued to mount and gave more opportunities for Washington. Hanavan said desperation began to show as the score got out of hand.
“Both teams we played were good and our guys got fired up,” Hanavan said. “We have a good team that’s capable, and we’re on the verge of becoming a good program.”
With double headers every weekend, each team has to prepare for two opponents and Hanavan said it can be difficult. The Vandals will host the “border war” with Washington State at 1 p.m. Saturday and Boise State at noon Sunday.
“Everyone hates BSU up here and we’ve never beaten them. With the guys graduating, it would be a great way to send them off,” Lavigne said.
Idaho lost to BSU in overtime during a fall 2007 scrimmage and Hanavan said he’s excited to get back on the field against them.
With Boise State transfers on the team and the opportunity to get the team’s first win against the Broncos, the rivalry has continued to build.
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