Relentless effort in the second period paid off with a late goal, sending John Carroll to a 1-0 victory in its season-opening match Friday night at Denison University.

A fairly even first half ended scoreless, and the statistics bore out the equal play. The Blue Streaks held just a slight edge in shots taken (8-6) and actually trailed in shots in goal (2-1) against an inspired Big Red side.

But the second half was all John Carroll.

Still, the issue was in doubt entering the final ten minutes as the scoreboard still displayed zeroes for both teams.

Hayden Parente tried to solve the puzzle that was Denison keeper Jack Thomas, and nearly did so with a shot that Thomas did all he could to redirect. 

Brian Lutz proved to be the right person in the right place at the right time, seizing upon the deflection for a the game-winning tally. It was the first career goal for the junior defender/midfielder.

JCU won the second half shot battle, 15-1, and the game's final tally of 23-7 was also decidely in favor of the Blue & Gold.

Liam McInstosh had three saves for his 13th career shutout.

This was John Carroll first season-opening win since 2013.