It?s easy to look at Towson University?s results in recent seasons and say the Tigers can?t beat big programs. After losing close games to the top four teams in the nation last year, Towson coach Tony Seaman?s response is simple.
“Well, I don?t see many people that do, either,” Seaman said. “But that?s why we?re here, and we love [the challenge].”
The biggest question mark for the Tigers ? ranked No. 14 by the preseason U.S. Intercollegiate Lacrosse Association coaches? poll ? entering Sunday?s opener with Loyola is in the crease.
“Can our goalie be consistent game in and game out, and save in and save out?” Seaman said. “If they play well, I think we have a great chance to be successful.”
Seaman said that junior Matt Antol has emerged from a three-way battle as the starting goalie for Sunday?s game. The team will have to be ready from the opening face-off, with some crucial games to start.
“March is tough, but it really sets us up well for our league,” Seaman said.
The Tigers are motivated to succeed in the league after losing by one goal to Delaware in the Colonial Athletic Association playoffs last season. Towson, which went 8-6 and played in seven one-goal games in 2006, will look to improve its record in close battles this season.
“We?ve got to finish our games off strong,” senior attack Bobby Griebe said.
It?s not only about finishing games, but also finishing shots. Towson struggled to do so in a recent scrimmage with Princeton, but the offense has few question marks. Junior Jonathan Engelke is the wild card, having sat out the 2006 season to focus on academics. He scored 31 goals as a freshman.
“He?s as smart as a fox. He gets open, and the guys know that and get the ball to him,” Seaman said. “He?s a lacrosse junkie and comes from a great lacrosse bloodline.”
So too, does Griebe, the team?s top scorer from a year ago. Seaman expects Griebe to have the ball in his stick more often this season, and his field vision will be key amid heavy defensive pressure.
Engelke said the team?s opening four games are crucial, including three huge games with No. 18 Loyola, No. 4 Maryland and No. 1 Virginia.
“To go up against those guys, it would be great if we get two out of three wins against those teams,” Engelke said. “That would be fantastic.”
Anything can happen, and Seaman provided evidence by pointing to Drexel?s momentous upset of No. 1 Virginia in the opening weekend of play.
If Towson can do the same, Seaman won?t be hearing any more from the Tigers? doubters.
KEY DATES
» Feb. 25: Towson visits Loyola in a key cross-town battle to open the season. The noon game will be televised on MASN.
» March 10: Maryland invades Unitas Stadium in a game that could define Towson?s season. The 1 p.m. game will be televised on WMAR.
» April 28: A big, late-season showdown with Johns Hopkins at Unitas Stadium. The 1 p.m. game will be broadcast on WMAR.
