UM-Dearborn Falls to SCAD Savannah, 16-8
Michigan-Dearborn built early momentum with a dominant first quarter, but a surge from SCAD Savannah in the middle frames proved too much to overcome, as the Wolverines dropped a 16-8 decision on Saturday afternoon in Black Mountain, North Carolina.
BLACK MOUNTAIN, N.C. -- A strong opening quarter wasn't enough for Michigan-Dearborn, as SCAD Savannah used a dominant middle stretch to pull away for a 16-8 victory on Saturday afternoon in Black Mountain, North Carolina.
Michigan-Dearborn (1-2) came out sharp, controlling the first quarter with a 4-1 advantage. Jeremy Fancett sparked the early surge with two goals, while Aidan Meyers and Kajee Williams-Jelks each found the back of the net to give the Wolverines early momentum.
That momentum shifted in the second quarter. After Michigan-Dearborn briefly extended the lead to 5-4 on Fancett's man-up goal, SCAD closed the half on a 4-1 run to even the game at 5-5 heading into the break.
The third quarter proved decisive. SCAD Savannah (7-0) erupted for five goals in the period, fueled by Mason Hickman, who finished with four goals and two assists, and Travis Cheristin, who added a hat trick. The Bees outscored Michigan-Dearborn 5-1 in the frame to take a 10-6 lead.
SCAD continued to press in the fourth, scoring six more times and capitalizing on possession advantages. The Bees held a significant edge in shots (50-23), ground balls (42-33), and faceoffs (18-10), limiting Michigan-Dearborn's offensive opportunities.
Fancett led the Wolverines with four goals, while Reece Rath contributed a goal and an assist. Cooper Hallwood and Meyers each added a goal in the effort.
Defensively, Michigan-Dearborn was led by strong ground ball efforts from multiple players, but struggled to slow SCAD's high-volume attack. Goalkeeper Owen Reed recorded 16 saves in the loss.
Michigan-Dearborn will look to regroup as it continues its early-season slate, aiming to build on its fast start while tightening possession and defensive execution moving forward.
