The Marquette University women’s lacrosse team is getting ready for a big match against Jacksonville in Florida this Sunday at 11 a.m. CT. The game will be streamed live on ESPN+.
### Last Game Recap
In their last outing, Marquette faced Arizona State and lost in a thrilling 19-16 match. Freshman Dani Serrano stood out, scoring five goals. Despite trailing at times, the team rallied with a strong three-goal run in the third quarter. Four players added two goals each, while goalkeeper Jillian Howell made 11 saves.
### New Rivalry with Jacksonville
This matchup marks the first time Marquette and Jacksonville will play each other. Both teams are eager to prove themselves in this new rivalry.
### Jacksonville’s Strong Start
Jacksonville comes into the game with a 2-0 record, recently beating Campbell 14-8 and Rider 17-4. Their offense has been impressive, outscoring rivals 31-12 in just two games. Players like Maeve Brennan and Olivia Johnson have shined, making it a formidable matchup for Marquette.
### Marquette’s Powerhouse Offense
Marquette has been averaging 15.8 goals per game, which places them at No. 11 in the nation and the top in the BIG EAST. They are shooting at a remarkable 54.9% efficiency. This offensive power has helped them outscore their opponents 79-69 overall this season.
### Dominance in Free Position Plays
Marquette’s free-position shooting is exceptional, with a conversion rate of 77.8%, ranking them fourth in the country. This edge could be crucial in upcoming games, especially against Jacksonville’s defense.
### Team Stats and Performance
Marquette also averages 22 points per game, the highest in their conference. Their ability to create assists—39.2% of their goals come from assists—shows teamwork in action. Defensively, they lead the league in caused turnovers, putting pressure on their opponents.
### Key Players to Watch
Dani Serrano has become a key player, ranking among the top in the nation with 24 points this season. Her partnership with junior Tess Osburn, who contributes consistently, makes Marquette’s offense more lethal. Freshman goalie Jillian Howell is still growing into her role, showing promise with her saves.
### The Bigger Picture
With women’s lacrosse gaining traction across the nation, this match could be a pivotal moment for both teams. As more fans tune in and support these athletic programs, the excitement will only grow.
The rise of women’s sports draws attention to not just the athletes but also the communities and schools they represent. Local engagement and social media buzz around games are more vibrant than ever, reflecting a shift in how women’s athletics are perceived and celebrated.
As Marquette heads into this game, eyes will be on how they perform against a solid Jacksonville team.
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