Senior CJ Kirst made history and delivered a game-changing play as No. 1 Cornell edged Dartmouth, 10-8, on Senior Day at Schoellkopf Field. With the win, the Big Red secured their third straight outright Ivy League title, improving to 12-1 overall and 6-0 in conference play.
Kirst opened the scoring just 58 seconds in, breaking the NCAA Division I career goals record with his 225th tally, and finished with two goals and an assist. However, his most crucial moment came late in the third quarter. After a turnover, Kirst hustled back to intercept a Dartmouth clear attempt, setting up Willem Firth’s go-ahead goal. Jack Cascadden quickly followed with another score off the faceoff, giving Cornell a two-goal cushion entering the final quarter.
Ryan Goldstein led the Big Red offense with two goals and three assists, while Cascadden dominated at the faceoff X, winning 12-of-18 draws and scooping nine ground balls. Walker Wallace added three caused turnovers to a strong defensive effort.
Cornell now heads into the postseason with momentum, while Dartmouth closed its season with an 8-5 record.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].