ROCK ISLAND, Ill. — The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire (3-2) triumphed over Augustana College (IL) (6-4) with a decisive 22–12 victory on Friday. The Blugolds made the most of their scoring chances, netting 14 unassisted goals throughout the game.
The match kicked off with Victoria Shea from UW-Eau Claire winning the draw control and scoring quickly at 12:03. This goal tied the game after Madison Langewisch of Augustana had scored first. Augustana responded with a goal from Becca Lacina, but UWEC quickly took charge. Jess Stiller and Paige Kiani helped propel the score with multiple goals, including an assisted shot from Grace Buesgens at 2:08. Despite a late effort from Jackie McNair, the Blugolds ended the first quarter ahead, 6–4, with a contribution from Reegan Werner.
In the second quarter, Kenzie Phillips extended UWEC’s lead with a goal at 13:32. Lacina responded for Augustana, narrowing the gap to 7–5. However, Grace Schmidt scored for UWEC to bring the tally to 8–5 just before halftime, helped by Brianna Scanlon’s vital ground ball recovery in the final moments.
The third quarter saw the Blugolds unleash a strong offensive streak, scoring three goals within two minutes. Stiller netted two goals, with assists from Werner and Addison Moudry, while Werner contributed one of her own. Augustana fought back, as Langewisch scored twice, with Lacina assisting, but UWEC stayed ahead, ultimately leading 16–9 by the end of the quarter.
The final quarter cemented UW-Eau Claire’s control of the game. Kiani opened the scoring with a goal at 12:53, followed by another later on. McNair managed to score for Augustana during a player-up situation, but the Blugolds continued to score. Buesgens assisted Scanlon, and Phillips capped the scoring with another goal. The visitors concluded the match strong, outscoring Augustana 6–3 in the last quarter for a 22–12 victory.
Kiani was the standout player, netting six goals and providing one assist, while Phillips scored three times. Werner not only scored three goals but also assisted twice, including the game-winner. Buesgens excelled in playmaking, offering four assists and scoring once.
This game marks a significant moment for the Blugolds as they build momentum in their season. In collegiate women’s lacrosse, teamwork and effective playmaking can be the keys to success, as evidenced by UWEC’s efficient scoring strategy this game.
Fans can keep up with the Blugolds throughout the season at Blugolds.com or through their social media accounts on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.
