CHICAGO—The Illinois Institute of Technology men's lacrosse team's 2021 home opener pitted them against Aurora University at Stuart Field on Wednesday. Scarlet Hawks goalie Zane Handy came up big with 17 saves, but couldn't get offensive support in a 16-2 loss to the Spartans.

The Scarlet Hawks fall to 0-4, 0-2 NACC while Aurora improves to 6-4, 2-0 NACC.

Aurora 16, Illinois Tech 2

The Spartans held Illinois Tech scoreless in the opening half en route to an 11-0 lead at halftime. The second half wasn't one-sided as Aurora held a slight 20-17 edge in shots throughout the final 30:00. Two of those shots resulted in Scarlet Hawks goals courtesy of Spencer Meace and Aerex Freeman before Aurora secured a 16-2 victory.

Aidan Gans assisted on Freeman's goal. 

Christopher Stone registered a 6-of-13 mark in the face-off circle for the Scarlet Hawks, while teammate Kaleab Uebelher notched a 4-of-9 mark. 

Joseph Dey and Brody McDonald each netted three goals for Aurora, who outshot Illinois Tech 56-24. 

Jack Coyle played the final 15:00 in net for Illinois Tech, and made three saves. Phillip Gianelle, Aric Vale and Camron Arnaud combined to make 10 saves for Aurora.

The Scarlet Hawks will host Marian (Wis.) on Saturday, April 10 at 2:30 p.m.