JV Dominates, Varsity Battles in Saline Lacrosse Home Opener vs. Bedford

Saline, MI – April 7, 2025 – The Saline Boys Lacrosse program hosted Bedford for their first home games of the season on Monday night. The JV squad rolled to a confident win, while the Varsity team fell just short in a physical, fast-paced matchup.

JV Hornets Roll to 12–4 Victory

The JV team continued their strong start to the season with a commanding 12–4 win over Bedford, thanks to balanced scoring and a steady team effort on both ends of the field.

Graham Murphy-Vanberkum (#7) and Fourie Dreyer (#9) opened the scoring in the first quarter, followed by goals from Archie Gates (#4) and Graham again in the second.

Goalies Gabe Elekonich (#24) and Brecken Harcourt (#28) both did a great job in net, combining to hold Bedford to just four goals total. Their effort along with consistent defensive play helped preserve the lead and keep momentum in Saline’s favor.

The third quarter saw a burst of offensive firepower. Dreyer scored again to open the half, followed by goals from Gates, Jack Alexander (#3), and Cooper House (#23). Dreyer struck again at the end of the quarter, bringing his total to three goals on the night. Saline closed the fourth with goals from Noah Ciazza (#36), House again, and Levi Choby (#27).

With energy, teamwork, and depth across the lineup, the JV Hornets continue to build confidence and chemistry early in the season.

Varsity Falls 10–8 in Hard-Fought Battle

In the varsity game, Saline dropped their first contest of the season with a tough 10–8 loss to Bedford, bringing their record to 3–1.

Nolan Heath led the Hornets with 3 goals and 4 assists, delivering precise, well-timed passes that created multiple scoring opportunities. Jack Scarpati scored two beautiful goals, showcasing skill and composure under pressure. Jon Jon Ohren-Hoeft added a goal, with Garrett Male and Jack Fate each contributing one as well. Fate also notched an assist. Rylan Stanton had a shot on goal and brought a calm, steady presence to the offense, helping maintain movement and structure throughout the game.

The game was tied 2–2 after the first quarter, and Bedford led 4–3 at halftime. A five-goal third quarter by Bedford gave them the separation they needed. Saline battled back in the fourth with three goals but couldn’t close the gap.

Faceoffs were a challenge, with Bedford winning 17 of 22 draws and controlling possession through key stretches.

Wyatt Page led the defense with 6 ground balls, took on LSM duties, stepped in for faceoffs when needed, and helped push transition play. With senior Drew Soupal still out, the defense continues to adapt and hold strong.

Goalie Owen Belote recorded 10 saves, keeping Saline within reach and making several key stops down the stretch.

“We had some penalties that killed momentum, forcing our team to go man-down too often, as well as a bad sub that wiped off a goal,” said Head Coach Ty McGuire. “Overall, Bedford played cleaner, smarter, and with more consistent energy than we did.”

The Hornets look to regroup and build on early-season lessons as they prepare for their next matchup.

Follow @saline_lax on Instagram and Saline HS Boys Lacrosse on Facebook for highlights, schedule updates, and more throughout the season.