EMMITSBURG, Md. — The UMBC Retrievers men’s lacrosse team overcame a slow start and a halftime deficit to defeat Mount St. Mary’s 7-4 on Tuesday evening, fueled by a career performance from attacker Ryan Demato. Demato scored four goals, including a stunning diving shot in the fourth quarter, as UMBC erupted for six goals in the final frame to secure the victory. The win marks the Retrievers’ first of the season and continues their dominance in the series against the Mountaineers.
After a quiet first half, UMBC found its offensive rhythm in the fourth quarter, erasing a 3-1 deficit with a flurry of goals. The Retrievers’ comeback was sparked by Demato, who scored three consecutive goals to tie the game at 3-3. The offensive surge was critical for UMBC, which had struggled to find the back of the net in the first three quarters. This Ryan Demato performance was a key factor in the Retrievers’ ability to secure the win.
Demato’s Career Night Propels UMBC
Demato’s four goals were a career high for the junior attacker. He opened the scoring with a goal late in the first quarter, but the Retrievers then went scoreless until the fourth. His three quick goals in the fourth quarter shifted the momentum of the game, tying the score and igniting the UMBC offense. The diving goal, described by UMBC’s athletic department as a spectacular play, extended the Retrievers’ lead and sealed the victory.
“He was just relentless,” said a source close to the team, who requested anonymity. “He kept attacking, kept creating opportunities, and really willed himself to the net. That diving goal was something special.”
Fourth-Quarter Surge Seals the Victory
Mount St. Mary’s briefly regained the lead at 4-3 with a goal from Kevin Whitty, but UMBC responded immediately. Senior defender Dante Marinello scored 30 seconds later to tie the game once more. Corey Myers then put UMBC ahead for the first time, 5-4, with just under six minutes remaining. Freshman Jack Fish added a goal with nine seconds left, capping off the Retrievers’ dominant fourth quarter and giving him a goal in each of his first three collegiate games.
The Retrievers’ offensive explosion in the fourth quarter was complemented by strong defensive play. UMBC caused 10 turnovers, with Marinello, Drew Lapointe, and Jameson Coffman each forcing a pair. Goalie McMahon made seven saves, earning his first win of the season and adding six ground balls.
Retrievers Continue Dominance Over Mount St. Mary’s
Tuesday’s victory marked the ninth consecutive season in which UMBC and Mount St. Mary’s have met on the lacrosse field. The Retrievers have won four straight games in the series and hold a commanding 30-2 all-time record against the Mountaineers. This long-standing rivalry continues to be a key part of both programs’ schedules.
Alex Steers controlled the face-off battle, winning eight of 13 attempts. Connor Chick added the lone assist for UMBC. The Retrievers’ next game is scheduled for Friday, February 27, 2026, at Towson, with a 6:00 p.m. Start time.
Ryan Demato put home a career-high 4? goals to put the Retrievers over the top and in the win column! #RetrieverNation pic.twitter.com/yTLzyyzbTc
— UMBC Men’s Lacrosse (@UMBC_MLax) February 24, 2026
The Retrievers will look to carry this momentum into their next contest against Towson. Fans can find more information about the UMBC men’s lacrosse team, including schedules and results, on the official UMBC Athletics website.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, please reach out for help. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers support and resources at https://www.nami.org/. You can also contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741.
What did you think of Demato’s performance? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow Retriever fans.
