The Hartford women’s lacrosse team won its home opener against Wentworth Institute of Technology, 18-1, on March 17. The game marked the Hawks’ first Conference of England match and victory of the season.
The win is significant as it sets a strong tone for Hartford’s conference play and demonstrates the team’s depth and offensive power. The Hawks controlled the pace from the start, with senior Sara Costa scoring the opening goal during a man-up opportunity. Junior Lauren Samela extended the lead before Wentworth responded with their only goal, ending the first period at 2-1.
Hartford continued to dominate in the second quarter with goals from Katie Graham and Kate Zonin, both assisted by Samela. Laurel McIntosh added another man-up goal, and Samela scored again before halftime to give Hartford a 6-1 advantage. In the third quarter, Costa and Zonin combined for three quick goals, pushing Hartford’s lead into double digits. Additional goals from Samela, Olivia Shepherd, and Zonin further widened the gap.
The fourth quarter saw continued pressure from Hartford as Costa, Madeline Aiello, Jaleen Ruiz, Graham, and Aiello all contributed to closing out the game at 18-1. Multiple players had multi-goal performances; Costa and Zonin each recorded four goals and two assists. Samela finished with three goals and three assists while also contributing defensively alongside Emily Bussiere.
After the game, Costa said: “I think our team has a lot of grit,” adding that reducing turnovers will be important as conference play continues. “There are so many players on our team who can score and do amazing things so we just have to keep utilizing one another… sticking to our plans helped us out today.”
Three goalkeepers appeared for Hartford: Mandi Rivard earned the win with two saves while Emily Campbell and Nora Miller split time in net.
Looking ahead, Hartford will host Plattsburgh State on Thursday, March 19 at 1:00 p.m.
