WINTER PARK, Fla. — Palm Beach Atlantic fell to Rollins College 14–10 on Wednesday night. Despite a strong first quarter, the Sailfish could not maintain their momentum, and Rollins took control in the second quarter, outscoring the 'Fish by five goals.
Gabe Eckhart led the scoring effort with three goals and one assist, marking the second consecutive game in which he has scored at least three goals, contributing significantly to the offensive output.
Noah Zimmerman added two goals, including one from a free position, to strengthen the team's attack.
Cooper Porter was effective with one goal and one assist, showcasing versatility in the offensive zone.
Patrick Law contributed both a goal and two assists, aiding in the team's overall scoring depth.
The match began with Rollins securing the initial faceoff, but the Sailfish quickly took control.
Jack Bryant's defensive efforts were crucial as PBA's
Jackson Pierce scored the first goal of the game. Rollins responded promptly, equalizing through Conor Sweeney.
Palm Beach Atlantic regained the advantage with a goal by Porter. Rollins managed to tie the score again, but Eckhart's two goals, including a pivotal one at 4:26, pushed the Sailfish ahead. Zimmerman extended the lead to 5–2 with a late goal.
Rollins closed the quarter with a goal from Zachary Blinkoff, cutting the deficit to two. As the first quarter ended, Palm Beach Atlantic led 5–3, having achieved at least 32 ground balls in two consecutive games, showcasing their ability to control possession.
The second quarter began with the 'Fish gaining initial possession through a faceoff victory by
Colin Delo. Despite successfully clearing the ball multiple times, a feat they've now accomplished with at least 21 successful clears in three consecutive games, Palm Beach Atlantic struggled to capitalize on its opportunities, with shots by
Braylon Baker and
Zion Lee being saved by Rollins' goalkeeper, Nick Catino.
Rollins shifted momentum with a goal by Logan Myers at 9:57, which tied the game. The home team then took control, adding three more goals from Aaron Williams, Chad Bulera, and Blinkoff. Despite the 'Fish's efforts, including another faceoff win by Delo, Rollins extended its lead to 9–5 by the end of the quarter.
Palm Beach Atlantic started the third quarter with effective ball movement, leading to a goal by Eckhart, assisted by Porter, at 13:05. This early score aimed to close the deficit but was followed by Rollins quickly regaining momentum with a goal by Sean Caracciolo at 12:06.
The middle of the quarter saw Rollins capitalize on their offensive opportunities, scoring three more times, including a goal by Myers at 7:48 and another by Nate Paulo at 6:30. PBA managed several clear attempts but faced turnovers that thwarted further scoring opportunities.
Despite defensive efforts, including saves by goalies Bryant and
Vincent Probst, the Sailfish concluded the third quarter trailing 12–6.
Palm Beach Atlantic initiated the fourth quarter with a man-up goal by
Lucas Sharrer, assisted by Law, capitalizing on an early penalty against Rollins. This effort was quickly followed by Zimmerman's goal, also assisted by Law, tightening the competition as the 'Fish gained momentum.
Continuing their offensive drive, Law scored with assistance from Eckhart, drawing another point. A timeout by Rollins followed, but Palm Beach Atlantic maintained pressure, with
Dominic Barnshaw adding to the tally, further narrowing the gap.
Rollins responded with goals from Williams and Charlie Metz, keeping their lead intact despite Palm Beach Atlantic's strong efforts. As the quarter concluded, the 'Fish trailed with a score of 10–14, unable to overcome Rollins' advantage.
The Sailfish conclude their season with a 1-6 conference record, Rollins advances to the SSC Tournament as the fifth seed.
