The Marquette University women’s lacrosse team is set to host Villanova this Saturday in Milwaukee. The game kicks off at noon CT at Valley Fields, and fans can catch the action on ESPN+.
Recent Game Recap
Last Wednesday, Marquette faced a tough match against No. 19 Denver, losing 15-9. Despite the loss, Tess Osburn stood out, scoring two goals and assisting on three others. Dani Serrano also made an impact, contributing a goal and two assists. The team kept it close until late in the game before Denver pulled away.
Marquette vs. Villanova
In their 13 meetings, Villanova leads the series 7-6. However, Marquette has performed well recently, winning four of the last five encounters since 2017. Still, Villanova clinched two victories against Marquette in their past matchups, including a 15-8 win in Philadelphia in 2025.
Villanova’s Strengths
Villanova is currently 8-3 and 2-0 in BIG EAST play, having just defeated UConn 10-8. They excel in teamwork and ball movement, ranking first in the BIG EAST for assists and draw controls. Players like Mary Moore, Rose Christie, and Elena Torres lead their offensive charge, showing that the Wildcats have a balanced scoring attack.
Accolades for Marquette Players
Following a strong performance against Xavier, Sofia Santana was named BIG EAST Defensive Player of the Week. She set a program record with seven caused turnovers in that game. Hanna Bodner was also recognized for her contributions, showcasing her ability to impact both defense and offense.
Marquette’s Offensive Edge
The Golden Eagles average 13.25 goals per game, making them one of the most effective scoring teams and placing second in the BIG EAST. They’re also efficient, ranking high in shot percentage. This is critical for maintaining pressure on rival defenses.
Transition and Defensive Skills
Marquette clears the ball effectively, maintaining an 87.4% success rate. This keeps their defense organized and minimizes the opponents’ scoring chances. On the defensive end, they lead the BIG EAST in caused turnovers, thanks to players like Santana and Mary Velner, who disrupt opposing plays regularly.
Emerging Talent
Freshman Dani Serrano has emerged as a key player, leading the team with 25 assists. Her ability to create opportunities has made a significant difference in their offense. Similarly, Tess Osburn leads the Golden Eagles in goals, showcasing her finishing ability.
Defensive Trio
Mary Velner, Sofia Santana, and Taylor Kotschevar form a strong defensive trio. Their combination of physical play and smart decisions has been crucial in limiting the opposition’s chances. They help Marquette rank first in caused turnovers in the BIG EAST, allowing the team to regain control of the game quickly.
As the Golden Eagles prepare for their next challenge against Villanova, fans look forward to seeing how this exciting matchup will unfold.
