McMINNVILLE, Ore. – Linfield lacrosse rolled to a 2-0 week Saturday afternoon with a nail-biting 13-10 win over Puget Sound at the Linfield Lacrosse and Soccer Complex.
The Wildcats jumped ahead early, opening the game on a 4-0 run and scoring seven of the first eight goals to take a 7-3 lead into the break. The Loggers started to make some noise with seven goals in the third quarter and even took a 10-9 lead with 4:28 left in the period. But Linfield's
Gabby Crist scored four unanswered goals to lift the 'Cats to back-to-back wins.
Crist established a new season high with eight goals to lead all players. She also dished out a pair of assists and had three caused turnovers and seven draw controls.
Mackenzie Kulick was second to Crist with three goals. While
Joelle Tran and
Grayce Miller rounded out the Linfield scorers.
Puget Sound took the loss despite leading Linfield in nearly every statistical category. The Loggers outshot the 'Cats, 35-22, with 25 shots on goal. The Loggers caused 24 turnovers but couldn't capitalize and finish on top.
Abby Stranahan fired in five goals on 16 shots, 11 on goal. Cat Schilli scored two goals to back her up while leading the team with four ground balls. Maddie Hider caused a game-high seven turnovers.
The difference was in the saves department, where the 'Cats held a 15-3 advantage.
Caity Babcock made a career-high 13 saves in over 49 minutes in goal. It was the first time in her career that she racked up double digit saves.
Tenley Hodge played 10 minutes and added two more saves.
NEXT
Linfield ends the week at 2-5 overall and 2-4 in Northwest Conference play. The 'Cats face a quick turnaround and a one-game week, hosting Carroll University (Wis.) at 6 p.m. Monday.
The second half of the NWC schedule opens in McMinnville when the 'Cats host Whitman on March 25 and Whitworth on March 26.
