McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University women's lacrosse team faced a challenging match against Carthage College at Tucci Stadium on April 10. The Titans were defeated by the Firebirds, resulting in a score of 16-5. This loss brings the Titans' overall record to 5-7 and their College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin (CCIW) record to 0-2. Meanwhile, Carthage improved its standing to 8-4 overall and 2-0 in league play.

Avery Setzler, a junior from Bloomington, led the Titans with three points through two goals and an assist. Sophomore Carleigh Fountain contributed two goals, while senior Britney Maldonado added one goal and an assist.

Setzler also secured four draw controls alongside sophomore Sadie Newton. Devon Hanson, another sophomore, added three draw controls to the team's efforts. Junior Mallory Mills recorded four ground balls, matching her career best performance.

Sophomore Prissilla Tucker was in goal for the Titans, making six saves during her time on the field.

The game began with Setzler winning the opening draw. Maldonado quickly assisted Fountain for the first goal, giving Illinois Wesleyan an early lead. However, Carthage responded with four consecutive goals before Setzler set up Fountain again to reduce the deficit just before the end of the first quarter.

A turnover forced by Sarah Riepe allowed Newton to take a shot that rebounded into Setzler's possession for another Titan goal in the first half. Despite this effort, Carthage maintained their lead going into halftime.

In the second half, Maldonado scored early but could not prevent Carthage from extending their advantage further with additional goals throughout the third quarter.

Illinois Wesleyan will remain at home for their next game against Carroll University on April 13 at Tucci Stadium. This match will honor Morgan's Message®, which focuses on mental health awareness within student-athlete communities.