CLEARWATER, Fla. — For the third time in program history, the Wittenberg men's lacrosse team has opened a season with a perfect 3-0 record after defeating DeSales 9-3 in the first of two Spring Break games in Clearwater, Fla.

Wittenberg was also 3-0 in 2009 and 2011. A year ago, the Tigers reeled off 11 straight victories before losing their first game.

The Tigers dominated the first three quarters of the game, opening up an 8-1 bulge by the end of the third quarter. Head Coach George Harris said the key was a particularly strong third quarter in which Wittenberg outscored DeSales 4-0 and a young but quickly improving defense didn't allow the opponent any quality looks at the Tiger goal.

The offense was paced by seniors Jim Ferris (Grand Rapids, Mich./East Grand Rapids) and George Gion (Northfield, Ill./New Trier) and junior Alex Previte (Dublin, Ohio/Coffman) with two goals apiece. Ferris added a career-high three assists as well.

Harris was pleased with his team's defensive performance, spearheaded by a third straight stellar start from senior goalkeeper Spencer Baker (Worthington, Ohio/Thomas Worthington). He was credited with eight saves.

Wittenberg returns to action in Clearwater, Fla., on Saturday against Susquehanna. First face-off is slated for noon.