This past Saturday, Lindenwood University clashed with the University of Arizona at Infinity Park in Denver, CO. In a thrilling showdown that lived up to the hype. The first half was an intense battle, with both sides displaying physicality and precision on attack, trading momentum in a tightly contested contest. But after the break, the Lions found another gear and their structure, composure, and clinical execution took control of the match as they edged past Arizona to claim a hard-fought victory in the Mile High City.
What Happened:
The opening half kicked off at a thrilling pace, with both sides showing intent on attack and physicality on defense. Lindenwood came out firing early, throwing the first punches and forcing Arizona to search for space. In the 19
th minute, Arizona capitalized on a handling error from the Lions, earning a lineout deep in opposition territory. Arizona executed a well-structured maul from the set piece to open the scoreboard, taking a 0-7 lead. The Lions answered back in the 27
th minute with a composed and well-worked try finished by
Neil Milczarek, swinging momentum back their way. However, Arizona continued to apply pressure and struck again in the 39
th minute to extend their advantage. A late yellow card against Lindenwood saw them reduced to 14 men heading into halftime, setting the stage for a tense second half.
A high-intensity first half saw both teams trading shots with precision on attack.
Byron Forword controlled the tempo, guiding the forwards and creating opportunities, but a few errors cost Lindenwood points. Arizona led 10-14 at the break.
Both teams came out of the break firing on all cylinders, but it was Lindenwood who struck first. Despite being down to 14 men, the Lions wasted no time, freshman
Michael Daly powered over the try line in the 45
thminute, with
Byron Forword adding the conversion to give Lindenwood the lead. Lions back to 15 men, with momentum fully swinging their way, the Lions took control of the game
. Jack McAllister scored in the 60
thminute, followed by
David Cathcart finishing another well-constructed attack in the 66
th minute, both converted by
Byron Forword to extend the margin. Arizona capitalized on a late handling error in the 71
stminute to score and convert, but Lindenwood remained composed.
Byron Forword continued to command the attack and sealed the result with a pinpoint penalty from 45 meters out. The Lions closed out an impressive second-half performance to defeat Arizona 34–21.
Coach Quote:
Head Coach Josh Macy. "I was proud of the way we kicked ourselves into the right parts of the field and dictated the rules of engagement in the contact area. We had some debutants step into new roles and it's fun to see the continued growth of our group.
Player Quote:
Junior Byron Forword. "I was proud of the character and determination the boys showed this weekend. The first Half was a slow burner but heading into the second half we picked up the tempo, better execution and made the right decisions. That "never say die" attitude carried us through and earned us a well-deserved victory over Arizona.
What's Next:
Lindenwood University gears up for their third Midwest Conference clash as they host Arkansas State at Hunter Stadium, St Charles, MO. Kick-off is set for 7pm. The Lions looking to build on their recent form and continue their strong conference campaign in front of the home crowd.
