The Youngstown State women’s lacrosse team is preparing to hit the road again, this time heading to Cincinnati for a noon matchup against the Bearcats at Nippert Stadium. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN+.
Recent Victory
Last Thursday was a big day for the Penguins. They scored their first win of the season, narrowly defeating Robert Morris 5-4. It was also a notable moment for head coach Liza Oakley. Claire Baenziger stood out with two goals, continuing her streak of scoring multiple goals in games. Teammates Molly Brooks, Gwen Bogash, and Alexis Kreutzer each contributed with assists. Defensively, Mackenzie Flannigan was a powerhouse, setting a career high with seven ground balls and tying her personal best with four caused turnovers. Alyssa Edwards excelled in goal, allowing only four shots to get past her and saving five.
Breaking Records
The game against RMU not only ended in a thrilling win but also set several new program records:
- Four goals allowed marked the fewest in a single game.
- The team recovered 41 ground balls, shattering the previous record of 30.
- With a 10-1 win in draw controls, they broke the record for the fewest draw controls allowed to an opponent.
Stats Breakdown
Baenziger is leading the Penguins with 18 goals this season, followed by Ava Kreutzer with eight. The team has scored 53 goals, with just 17 coming from assists this year. Mackenzie Flannigan leads in ground balls and caused turnovers, with 28 and 15, respectively. Alyssa Edwards remains steady in goal, with 38 saves across six games.
Upcoming Challenge
The Bearcats, currently 7-4, are coming off a nail-biting loss to Louisville. They rank impressively in draw controls and free position shooting, indicating a tough challenge for Youngstown State. Paige Selhorn leads the Bearcats with significant contributions in both goals and assists, making her a player to watch. Cincinnati also has standout Morgan Handzel, who excels in draw controls, contributing to the team’s impressive stats.
A Personal Touch
This game is especially significant for Youngstown State. A win would mark their first victory against Cincinnati and their first over a Big 12 opponent, showcasing growth in their program. Coach Oakley, who previously coached at Bucknell, is looking to build momentum this season.
Freshman players are also making their mark, contributing 12 goals so far. Notably, Maya Griffin leads the freshmen class with six goals, indicating a promising future for the team.
These young players bring fresh talent and energy, something the team needs after challenges last season, where weather limited home games. This year, they’ve already enjoyed better conditions, with two games played outdoors at Farmers National Bank Field.
As the Penguins prepare for their showdown with Cincinnati, excitement is in the air. It’s more than just a game; it’s about continuing to redefine their team and proving their strength in the conference.
