The Hartford Hawks women’s lacrosse team lost to Western Connecticut State University on Saturday, bringing their season record to 0-3. The final score was 13-9 in favor of the Wolves.
Western Connecticut State took control early in the game, scoring two goals within the first five minutes and finishing the first quarter with a 7-0 lead. Hartford managed only three shots in the opening period, none of which resulted in goals.
Hartford’s first goal came just 29 seconds into the second quarter when junior Lauren Samela scored her ninth goal of the season. Goalie Mandi Rivard made several saves during this period to keep Hartford in contention. Samela assisted senior Courtney Ingham for her first goal of the season, and Ingham added another on a free position shot before halftime, narrowing West Conn’s lead to 7-3.
In the third quarter, West Conn extended its advantage with three consecutive goals. Junior Katie Graham ended that run for Hartford with a goal assisted by sophomore Brenna Slattery. Sophomore Kate Zonin also scored for Hartford as they trailed 11-5 heading into the final quarter.
Gina Giambald opened scoring in the fourth quarter for West Conn with her fourth goal of the game. Hartford responded with goals from senior Sara Costa and Graham, but despite cutting the deficit to four late in the match, West Conn maintained possession and secured a 13-9 win.
Zonin contributed one goal, one assist, and collected 11 draw controls for Hartford. Graham, Ingham, and Costa each scored twice. Samela finished with one goal, one assist, and three draw controls. Senior Samantha Ciaglo led defensively with a caused turnover and five ground balls. Rivard made 11 saves during the game.
For Western Connecticut State University, Madison Ratchford led with three goals and two assists. The Wolves had a significant edge in shots on goal (23-11) and forced six turnovers compared to Hartford’s three.
The Hawks will play their next game at Wellesley College on Tuesday at 4:00 PM.
