CASTINE, Maine — Maine Maritime used a fast start and a balanced offensive effort to defeat Gordon College 16-8 on Saturday afternoon in a season-opening men's lacrosse victory.

Maine Maritime (1-0) seized control early, scoring five unanswered goals in the opening quarter to build a 5-0 cushion. The Mariners continued to dictate tempo in the second quarter, stretching the lead to 7-2 over Gordon (0-1) by halftime behind efficient shooting and consistent ball movement.

Freshman Ryan Parent paced the Mariners with five goals and two assists, repeatedly capitalizing on scoring opportunities in transition and settled offense. Senior Trey Marcil orchestrated the attack with three goals and five assists, factoring into eight of Maine Maritime's 16 goals. Sophomore Ryan Dunstan added two goals and four assists, giving the Mariners three players with at least six points.

Sophomore Tobey Lappin contributed two goals, while junior Jaden Knight and sophomore Tristan Reinhold each found the net as Maine Maritime showcased depth throughout the lineup.

Gordon attempted to chip away in the second half, but the Mariners answered each push. Maine Maritime outscored the Fighting Scots 9-6 over the final two quarters to maintain a comfortable margin.

In goal, sophomore Ben Kieu recorded 15 saves, anchoring a defensive unit that limited Gordon's early momentum and protected the lead throughout the afternoon.
Junior Bryce Crowell dominated on the faceoff going 16-24 with a team-high 10 ground balls, while fellow junior Matthew Villeneuve racked up five caused turnovers.

The Mariners finished with an impressive 61-36 shot advantage and a 36-23 advantage on shots on goal, while also compiling 55 ground balls and 12 caused turnovers.

MMA returns to action on Tuesday when it travels to Dean College for a 3 p.m. start.