McLean County Times

Playing their first game in ten days, the Illinois Wesleyan University women's lacrosse team faced a challenging match against Calvin University on Wednesday, March 19, resulting in a 19-4 loss. This defeat brings the Titans' record to 3-4, while Calvin improves to 4-2.

Junior Sadie Newton led Illinois Wesleyan's scoring with two goals. Senior Avery Setzler and freshman Makenna McVey also contributed with one goal each, marking McVey's first career goal.

Defensively, junior Prissilla Tucker stood out with five ground balls and three caused turnovers. Newton added three ground balls and both players secured three draw controls each.

In goal, senior Lizzie Rymarcsuk made 20 saves, just one short of her personal best, achieving a .541 save percentage. Freshman Marli Brown also contributed with two saves.

The Titans were at a disadvantage in several areas: shots (46-11), ground balls (21-17), draw controls (15-10), and caused turnovers (16-4). They completed 12 of 23 clear attempts compared to Calvin's 12-for-14 performance but had an advantage in saves with a total of 22 compared to Calvin's four.

Rymarcsuk made early contributions by saving the first shot and free position attempt from Calvin after they won the opening draw. Despite these efforts, the Knights scored twice early in the first quarter.

Newton responded for Illinois Wesleyan with a low hopper goal from eight meters out, reducing the deficit to 6-1 late in the first period. Setzler then scored following an assist from freshman Carly Bajusz to close the gap further at the end of the opening period.

Newton continued her scoring into the second quarter but Calvin dominated for the remainder of the half, leading 13-3 at halftime and ultimately securing a decisive victory over Illinois Wesleyan.

The Titans will continue their road games against Augsburg University on Saturday, March 22. The match is scheduled for an 11 a.m. start at Edor Nelson Field.