McLean County Times

The Illinois Wesleyan University women's lacrosse team secured a victory against Carroll University with an 11-9 win at Tucci Stadium. The game, held on April 13, saw senior Britney Maldonado break the program's single-season assists record by recording her 50th assist. This achievement surpassed the previous record of 49 assists set by Sam Bidlack in 2019.

Maldonado and sophomore Devon Hanson were instrumental in leading the Titan offense, each contributing six points. Maldonado scored one goal and provided five assists, while Hanson achieved a new career-high with six goals. Sophomore Anelise DiGiovanni added two goals to the team's total.

Hanson also excelled in draw controls, securing five and helping Illinois Wesleyan achieve a 14-9 advantage in this area. Junior Avery Setzler and sophomore Sarah Riepe each contributed three draw controls. Riepe also led the team with five ground balls, while junior Lizzie Rymarcsuk collected four during her season debut.

Defensively, the Titans caused 21 turnovers against their opponents. Hanson and Riepe each caused five turnovers, setting personal bests for both players.

Rymarcsuk played all 60 minutes as goalkeeper, making crucial saves to surpass 200 career saves. After Carroll scored first, Illinois Wesleyan quickly responded with Maldonado assisting Fountain for an equalizer.

Carroll took a brief lead at 3-1 before Maldonado assisted DiGiovanni for another goal. By halftime, Carroll was ahead by one goal at 7-6.

In the second half, Setzler won the opening draw which led to another score from Hanson after receiving a pass from Maldonado. Despite some setbacks, Illinois Wesleyan tied the game multiple times throughout the match.

With less than six minutes remaining and tied at nine apiece, Hanson capitalized on a free position opportunity to put IWU ahead. She later scored again just before time expired to secure an 11-9 victory for Illinois Wesleyan.

The Titans will now head out on a two-game road trip starting with Elmhurst University on April 17 at Langhorst Field.