Backed by a seven goal performance from sophomore Erica Evans, the Canisius women's lacrosse team defeated Manhattan 19-3 this afternoon from the Demske Sports Complex, moving their overall record to 6-5, while remaining perfect in MAAC play at 3-0.
“I thought we excelled in all areas of the game today,” said head coach Scott Teeter. “It was a total team effort for sixty minutes, I thought we prepared well for the matchup and it was good to see Erica get rewarded for her hard work over the past few games.”
The Griffs dominated the first half of action, starting the game on an 11-0 run that included five goals from Evans. The teams would go on to trade two goals apiece down the stretch, with Canisius closing out the half with a 13-2 lead.
The Blue and Gold continued their strong play in the second, scoring the first four goals of the half, outscoring the Jaspers 6-1 overall in the half, for a 19-3 final.
Five Golden Griffins recorded double digit goals in the contest, including Evans (7), sophomores Megan Maloney (2) and Allie Stewart (3), along with freshmen Tessa Chad (3) and Jourdan Roemer (2).
Evans led the Griffs in points with nine, while Roemer, Stewart and sophomore Lauren Smolensky each recorded four points. Evans now leads the team in both goals (28) and points (35).
Sophomore goaltender Rebecca VanLaeken recorded the win for Canisius on three saves, moving her record to 6-4 on the year.
“I also thought our defense performed well for us today,” Teeter said. “We either gave u`p a low percentage shot or the defense made a play and took them out of their comfort zone, that's what really energized us.”
With the win the Griffs have defeated Manhattan in nine consecutive matchups.
The Griffs will next travel to Loudonville, N.Y. to face Siena this Wednesday Apr. 13 at 4 p.m.
Game Notes: Evans' seven goal performance was one away from tying a school record held by three former Griffs… Her seven goals and nine total points are both career highs, as well as team highs for season… The sophomore midfielder excelled in all aspects of the game recording eight draw controls, three ground balls and causing three turnovers… Maloney's two goals are a new career high… Roemer has now scored multiple goals in four straight games... The Griffs have excelled at the Demske, going an impressive 4-1 at home.
