SPORTS

The Wildcats continue their winning ways.

RICHMOND, Va. – The Davidson women’s lacrosse team hung onto a 15-14 win over VCU in Atlantic 10 action on Thursday afternoon, as the Wildcats picked up their 12th win of the year and matched the program’s record for most wins in a single-season, previously set in 2014.

With the win, the ‘Cats improved to 6-1 in league play, which also matches the program’s record for the most wins in A-10 action in a single season.

The Rams got on the board first from their home turf in Richmond, but wouldn’t lead for long as Gianna New and Grace Fahey combined for back-to-back, give-and-go goals to give Davidson the early 2-1 edge. While VCU would settle the score just a minute later, senior Emma Johnson dodged a defender and found the back of the net as the first quarter expired, putting the ‘Cats back in front, 3-2.

Davidson found its footing in the second quarter, outscoring the Rams 7-3 to take a 10-5 lead at the half. Over the course of the frame, Emily Weld, Erin Cooke and Lauren Arkell each capitalized on free position attempts, while sophomore Julianne Carey added a strike between the goalkeeper’s legs. New and Fahey would also convert on over-the-shoulder shots before the end of the half to help the ‘Cats take their five-goal lead.

VCU opened up the second half with the first goal, cutting its deficit to four, before getting quickly shut down by the Wildcats as New and Carey forced a turnover on VCU’s clear attempt and passed back and forth until they found the back of the net. Carey would score once more before the third quarter expired, while the Rams closed out the frame with two more scores to keep it a four-goal game.

From there, VCU’s offense burst into a four-goal tear, totaling six straight scores, to tie the game, 12-12, with 10 minutes to go. While Davidson’s offense had been on a 14-minute drought, Carey ignited the ‘Cats with back-to-back goals, followed by another strike from Weld to regain the lead for good and secure the win.

Goalkeeper Amanda Monahan made 13 saves in her 11th win this season, while Davidson’s defense combined for eight caused turnovers. New and Carey ended the day with five points apiece, while New scored five goals and Carey added four goals and an assist. The duo also combined for 13 of Davidson’s 17 draw controls.

Up Next
The Wildcats will turn around and take on the No. 19/20 Richmond Spiders on the road on Saturday afternoon, beginning at 3 p.m.