Women's Lacrosse Defeated by Niagara in MAAC Conference Opener

NORTH ANDOVER, MA- The women's lacrosse team lost to the Niagara University Purple Eagles in their first MAAC conference game at Duane Stadium on Saturday, March 22nd.

Rapid Recap

Score: Merrimack 9, Niagara 12

Records: Merrimack 1-7, Niagara 3-7

How it Happened

The first quarter was a hard-fought battle. The Warriors and the Purple Eagles were keeping pace with each other in the early goings. Hailey Schnider was first to light the lamp for the Warriors, scoring at the 5:42 mark. Lindsay Atkinson followed up with a goal of her own 3 minutes later to keep the Warriors in striking distance. The score was 3-2 in favor of Niagara until Hailey Schnider scored her second of the game for the Warriors with less than 3 minutes to go. Lindsay Atkinson came in clutch once again and scored her second goal of the game to give the Warriors a 4-3 lead to end the first quarter.

The second quarter saw the Warriors getting the scoring started early with Sophia Ingenito netting a goal four minutes into the frame. She would then assist a goal that came from the stick of Allison Lamphere. It would be Ashlyn Campbell tallying a goal of her own with less than 5 minutes remaining, giving the blue and gold a 7-4 lead. The blue and gold held onto the lead as the second quarter concluded.

In the second half, the Purple Eagles went on a 6-0 run to get the lead. However, the Warriors did not go away quietly. The blue and gold scored two goals 10 seconds apart to be back within striking distance. Those two goals came from Allison Lamphere and Hailey Schnider. Although the Warriors would have a late push, it was halted by the Purple Eagles. Niagara went on to win the contest 12-9.

Notes and Numbers

• Hailey Schnider led the scoring with 3 goals. 

• Lindsay Atkinson had 2 goals and an assist.

• Sophia Ingenito had a goal and 2 assists.

• Allison Lamphere had 2 goals.

• Ashlyn Campbell tallied a goal and an assist.

The Warriors hit the road next Saturday, March 29th and continue MAAC conference play when they play the Manhattan University Jaspers in the Empire State. Game time is set for 2PM. The game will be streamed on ESPN+. For continuing coverage, visit merrimackathletics.com . Follow Merrimack women's lacrosse on Instagram @merrimackwlax.