April 1, 2007

Box Score

Erie, PA - Sophomore Rachel Ray had four goals and three assists to lead the Adelphi University women's lacrosse team to a 14-9 win over Mercyhurst this afternoon. The Panthers improve to 6-1 on the season while the Lakers drop to 3-3.

Mercyhurst struck first as Kristen Toomey scored in the fourth minute on an assist from Lauren Smith. Adelphi responded on a 4-0 run, with Ray picking up a goal and two assists in the effort. The Lakers made it 4-2 at 20:32. Senior Diana Lopez found the back of the net on a Ray dish followed by three free position goals from seniors Meghan Blume and Lauren Lopez and freshman Holly Burke. Mercyhurst picked up back-to-back goals in the 24th and 25th minute, but freshman Danielle Kafarski had the last word of the half, pushing Adelphi's lead to five, 9-4.

Both teams traded goals in the beginning of the second half, ultimately scoring five apiece. Lauren Lopez notched her third point on a free position shot at 21:23, with Mercyhurst scoring just over a minute later. Ray tallied three goals in the half, including the final goal with thirty seconds left on the clock.

Defensivley, the Panthers were led by senior Tara Grodotzke who had eight ground balls, four caused turnovers and three draw controls. Burke and Ray each had five ground balls and two draw controls.

Freshman goalie Caitlin Fitzpatrick recorded a career-high 21 saves in her first collegiate start. Jessica Raniero had six saves for Mercyhurst.

Adelphi returns to action on Saturday, April 7, as they travel to Philadelphi University. The first draw is scheduled for 12 noon.