Inconsistency plagues lax

The men's lacrosse team beat non-conference Marietta College last Saturday, 14-9, for their second victory of the season. The week wasn't all joy for the team, however, as they were routed by Ohio Wesleyan University 28-1 on Wednesday.

First-year Dave Rooklin continued to live up to expectations as he recorded five goals and three assists. For his effort against Marietta and Northwood University he was named NCAC co-athlete of the week.

Although the game was played in the pouring rain, the weather did not change the result as the Yeomen improved their record to 2-9 overall (0-7 in the NCAC), with both wins coming against Marietta. However, their previous win caused a little overconfidence early on.

"We came in a little cocky and it took a quarter to warm up. Once we did, we rolled over them," sophomore Tyler Smith said.

Along with Rooklin, fifth-year Im Soo Kwak supplied unexpected punch for the Yeomen. The defenseman and midfielder tallied a hat trick and one to make sure that there would be no threat.

Rooklin said, "Im Soo really stepped it up, and he's not a goal-scorer, so that was key."

Smith added, "We played well as a team later in the game."

Unfortunately for the Yeomen, several factors were against them in Wednesday's crushing defeat to Ohio Wesleyan, 28-1. OWU is currently ranked no. 9 in the nation and had beaten second-ranked Denison, a team that dismantled the Yeomen earlier in the season. Oberlin was also missing their face-off specialist, senior Ted Carleton, and sophomore defensemen Zeljko Petrovic and John Buff. This caused senior captain Matt Jensen to play long-stick defense for the first time this season. Because of the shortage, the Yeomen competed with just 13 available players with 10 on the field at one time.

Jensen normally plays midfield, a position that requires a short stick. Despite this he played well, considering he had only practiced with a long stick the previous week.

"Matt played long-stick defense for the first time this season and played well," Rooklin said.

At times OWU seemed unstoppable, but for certain stretches of time, the Yeomen were able to compete at their level.

"The defense played well. We went through periods where we matched them," Rooklin said.

Smith added, "We had our moments. They were tough because we had a lot less guys. But we showed we could keep up with their games."

First-year goalie Dave Smolev had another outstanding game in goal, recording 28 saves; another six would have set a new record.

Oberlin is home against Kenyon College this Saturday at 1:30 p.m., their final conference game. Their last game is home next Saturday against Northwood University.