WAUKESHA, Wis. - The Carroll University men's lacrosse team continued its quest for a first-ever conference victory Saturday afternoon.
Despite high expectations of potentially accomplishing that feat, the Pioneers struggled to overcome a slow start and eventually lost to University of Dubuque 19-5 in a College Conference of Illinois-Wisconsin game at Schneider Stadium.
It was the third conference loss of the season and fifth on its home field for Carroll, which dropped to 0-3 in the league standings and 4-9 overall.
Dubuque, which won its first conference game to improve to 1-4 in league and 9-6 overall, outscored the Pioneers 11-2 in the first half - including four unanswered goals within the opening six minutes.
Freshman attackman Matt Penalvert scored a game-high nine goals for the Spartans, who showcased their speed and athleticism by outshooting Carroll 51-19 in the physical, fast-paced contest - maintaining a critical 16-3 shot-on-goal advantage in the first half.
Freshman attackman Jeff Schultz (Franklin, Wis.) contributed two of his team-best three goals in the second half and had an assist for Carroll, which struggled to establish a consistent rhythm as it committed an uncharacteristic 38 turnovers. 
Schultz, who leads the team in scoring with 25 goals, has registered eight multiple-goal games this season for the Pioneers.
Sophomore attackman Paul Kerchberger (Deer Park, Ill.) followed with two goals and an assist. Freshmen midfielders Christopher Bechtel (Sammamish, Wash.) and Dom Sabbarese (Verona, Wis.) each added an assist.
Carroll first-year coach Brian Nowak was quick to point out that the number of mental mistakes played a critical role throughout the day.
"We played hard from beginning to end but the amount of unforced errors really became a factor as the game progressed," said Nowak, whose team trailed 6-1 at the end of the first quarter. "With the strength of the conference, we couldn't afford to have that happen. Dubuque just stepped up, showcased their athleticism and took advantage of the opportunities.
"We've made significant progress throughout the season and continue to make strides every time we step on the field. With one more home game remaining, we intend to play up to our potential and make the most of the situation."