Wire-To-Wire: Hornets dominate Caseys to improve to 2-1

RED BANK — Holmdel turned in a complete, wire-to-wire performance in a Shore Conference boys lacrosse matchup, defeating Red Bank Catholic, 13–1, at Count Basie Park in Red Bank. With the win, Holmdel improved to 2–1 overall while Red Bank Catholic fell to 0–3. Backed by dominant midfield play, efficient offense, and a suffocating defensive effort, the Hornets controlled the game from start to finish and continued to build momentum early in the season.

That control was evident immediately in the first quarter, as Holmdel jumped out to a 4–1 lead behind goals from junior attacker David Perrotti, senior attacker Finn Buchan, and junior attacker James Esposito. The tone, however, was set in the middle of the field, where the Hornets consistently won ground balls and secured possession. Freshman faceoff specialist Tyler Carri played a key role in that effort, helping Holmdel dictate tempo while also contributing a goal.

As head coach Brendan Quinn explained, “Games are won and lost in the midfield and possession. We did a great job winning in between the boxes and on ground balls, and Tyler [Carri] was outstanding on faceoffs” —a theme that directly reflected Holmdel’s early advantage.

The Hornets carried that momentum into the second quarter, extending their lead to 9–1 by halftime. Buchan was at the center of the offensive surge, tallying six first-half points (two goals, four assists), while Perrotti and Esposito continued to finish opportunities created by crisp ball movement. Rather than relying on isolation, Holmdel consistently found the open man and executed within its offensive structure.

Buchan credited that collective approach, noting, “Offensively, we all got to our spots and found the open guy and were able to execute.” Senior midfielder Jack Cannon also facilitated the offense, finishing with two assists and helping maintain the flow of possession without forcing shots.

While the offense built the lead, Holmdel’s defense ensured there would be no response from Red Bank Catholic. The Hornets allowed just one goal all game, with senior goalie Jack Tiller anchoring the unit with 15 saves. Even when RBC managed to generate looks, they struggled to break through Holmdel’s defensive structure. Buchan pointed to that consistency and preparation, explaining that “we are able to run a really good zone that frustrates teams… we practice it every day”. That discipline, combined with experienced defenders who have spent multiple years in the system—led by senior defenseman Marcus Cermele—allowed Holmdel to maintain control throughout.

Holmdel continued to pull away in the second half, extending the lead to 12–1 after three quarters. Perrotti added two more goals during the stretch, ultimately finishing with a game-high five, while Cermele contributed on both ends of the field with a goal and an assist. The Hornets closed out the game with one final goal in the fourth quarter, sealing the 13–1 victory.

The performance reflected not only statistical dominance but also a growing cohesion within the roster.

Quinn emphasized that familiarity and experience have been key factors, noting that several defensive contributors are multi-year starters who “have been within our system for 3 to 4 years and play really well together”. That chemistry was visible across the field, from the defensive rotations to the offensive spacing and unselfish play.

As one of the team’s senior leaders, Buchan also highlighted the importance of building that chemistry beyond game situations and building relationships that translate to better play on the field.

“I just take them under my wing, after practice, we go get food together, and I just show them the ropes, build chemistry that translates to the field. I always try to be respectful and help in any way I can, and just keep grinding, no matter what, to show them what Hornets lacrosse is all about,” Buchan exclaimed.

That connection was evident in Holmdel’s ability to play as a cohesive unit, with contributions coming from all across the lineup, including sophomore midfielder Anthony Serini, who added a goal, and Carri, who controlled possession at the faceoff X.

With a dominant showing on both ends, control at the faceoff X (11–6), and a balanced offensive attack led by Perrotti and Buchan, Holmdel demonstrated the traits of a team capable of competing with the Shore Conference’s top programs.