The Centenary University Women's Lacrosse team faced a tough start to their conference play on Saturday, as they fell to Gwynedd Mercy University 15-4 in their opening game of the season. Despite the loss, the Cyclones showed resilience throughout the match, particularly from their leaders on offense and defense.
On Senior Day, the Cyclones took to the field to honor six seniors: Chloe Neubauer, Giulianna Falquez, Isabel Moreira, Kaylie Elsbree, Emily Hotz, and Daisy Manjarrez. The seniors were recognized before the game, and their leadership was evident, both in the way they carried themselves and in their contributions on the field.
The Cyclones were led by junior attacker Trista Hough, who scored twice for Centenary in a valiant effort to keep the team competitive. Hough's two goals were key to the team's offensive push. Dyani Alonso and Antonia Tucci also contributed with a goal each, showcasing the Cyclones' determination to remain in the game despite the tough competition.
In net, goalkeeper Autumn Thame-Knox was a standout for Centenary, making 12 crucial saves to keep the game from getting out of hand. Thame-Knox's performance was one of the few bright spots in a game where the Cyclones struggled to contain Gwynedd Mercy's potent offense.
Gwynedd Mercy, however, dominated the match from the start, firing off 15 goals in a display of offensive prowess. Despite the loss, Centenary showed moments of promise and determination that will serve as building blocks for the remainder of the season.
The loss drops the Cyclones to 0-1 in conference play, but with the leadership of players like Hough, Alonso, Tucci, and Thame-Knox, as well as the contributions of their seniors, Centenary will look to bounce back in their next contest.
