When the Coppell boys lacrosse team stole a goal against Keller just two minutes into the game, it was the start of a back and forth pattern of domination that continued until the first half ended, and a promise of the quick scores that characterized Coppell’s Senior Night game.

This energy and the good amount of time spent solely in the defensive and attack areas eventually led to Coppell winning, 11-8, over Keller at Lesley Field.

“We had a tough loss last Thursday against Allen and came back motivated at practice to get better, push ourselves a little bit harder and prepare for a tough opponent,” Coppell head coach Matt Mueller said. “Our guys were locked in and engaged the entire week of practice, which showed on the field. I’m really proud of how they responded after a tough loss.”

As the first quarter looked promising for Keller, Coppell leading 3-1 with five minutes left in the quarter, Coppell started on a series of goals that, ending with one by senior attacker Aidan Stricklin, gives the Cowboys and early lead, 4-3, that drags onto the end of the first half with Keller trailing Coppell 7-5 at halftime. With all goals scored by seniors until now, it also serves as a confident start before commemorating the seniors at halftime.

“We came out to the field fired up since it was Senior Night,” Coppell senior midfielder Bain Carter said. “We had something to prove. You’re basically expected to win on Senior Night, and you could see everyone wanted the win tonight.”

With Keller looking to gain back a lead in the second half, Coppell’s defense played an important role as Keller slipped in three goals throughout the second half. Coppell sophomore goalie Blu Carter saved a series of attempts by Keller in the final quarter. Keller’s offense gains momentum in the final quarter but Coppell’s lead drags out to the end of the game.

“In this game, we definitely [took advantage of] ground balls and hustled,” Coppell senior midfielder Tyler Wendel said. “We had many big hits and the defense really held us down. Blu Carter’s saves helped us stay in the game. Once our offense started picking up in the second half, that’s what really got us this win.”

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