Men's Lacrosse Nipped in Season Opener at Farmingdale State, 9-8

FARMINGDALE, N.Y. – Playing in their first game of the 2026 season, the University of Bridgeport's men's lacrosse team dropped a 9-8 contest at Farmingdale State on Wednesday.

After an evenly played first half that featured six Purple Knight goals from six different scorers, Farmingdale seized control with a 3-0 third quarter, holding UB scoreless for the entire frame.

Bridgeport battled to the final whistle, scoring twice in the fourth quarter—including a pair of man-up goals—but the comeback fell just short.

Matthew Levantini and James Napoli paced the balanced attack with two goals apiece, while Luciano Canino added a goal and two assists for a team-high three points.

Stephen Trama also dished out two assists, and Connor Cullen, Darien Fray and Noah Beard each found the back of the net.

Cullen was dominant at the faceoff X, winning 15 of his 16 attempts as UB finished 17-of-19 overall on draws.

Defensively, Luca Runyan was outstanding with a team-best six ground balls and three caused turnovers, while Liam O'Neill matched him with three caused turnovers of his own.

The Purple Knights held a 44-28 edge in ground balls and converted 3-of-4 extra-man opportunities.

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The Purple Knights are scheduled to make their home debut on Saturday with an 11 a.m. matchup against Franklin Pierce.