McLean County Times

A 10-point performance by senior Britney Maldonado led the Illinois Wesleyan University women's lacrosse team to a 16-6 victory over Elmhurst University on Wednesday night, April 17. The match saw Maldonado break the single-season points record just days after setting a new single-season assists record. Sophomore Devon Hanson also set a new program record for single-season caused turnovers, surpassing Dani Engelbreit's previous mark of 42 from the 2017 season.

Maldonado contributed three goals and seven assists, while sophomore Carleigh Fountain scored five goals, earning six points. Anelise DiGiovanni added three goals for the Titans.

Sophomore Sadie Newton dominated at the draw with six controls. Hanson recorded five draw controls, and Sarah Riepe and Avery Setzler each had three. The trio of Hanson, Setzler, and Riepe also led in ground balls with five each.

The IWU defense continued its aggressive play with 23 forced turnovers. Hanson led with six caused turnovers to set a new career-high. Riepe matched her best with four forced errors, while Setzler and DiGiovanni each posted three.

Junior Lizzie Rymarcsuk played all 60 minutes in goal, making four saves and securing one ground ball.

Illinois Wesleyan struck first when Maldonado assisted Setzler for an early goal. Elmhurst responded but was eventually overtaken as IWU tied the game before taking control in the second quarter with three consecutive goals.

IWU extended their lead after halftime with Bri Steil scoring her first collegiate goal followed by two from Maldonado. The Titans closed out strong in the final quarter to secure the win.

Maldonado's record-breaking point came on an assist to DiGiovanni before completing her hat trick late in the game. This achievement surpassed current head coach Grainne Kelly's previous record of 96 points set in 2018.

Illinois Wesleyan will have a weekend break before facing North Central College on April 24 at Benedetti-Wehrli Stadium at 7 p.m.