McLean County Times

April 19, 2025 - The Illinois Wesleyan University women's lacrosse team was unable to complete a second-half comeback against Carthage College, ending in a 10-8 defeat. This result now places the Titans at a 7-8 record for the season, with their conference play at 2-2. Carthage improved to a 10-3 overall record and 2-1 in league play.

The Titans faced a six-goal deficit coming out of halftime. Senior Mia Fiandaca initiated IWU's attack with a forced turnover, followed by Junior Sadie Newton setting up senior Avery Setzler to score, reducing the gap to 9-4. Fiandaca continued to drive the team's efforts, scoring her third goal from a pass by Junior Anelise DiGiovanni, bringing the score to 9-5.

The rally was further aided by junior Carleigh Fountain and senior Lizzie Rymarcsuk, both contributing defensively and offensively to keep the game competitive. The third quarter concluded with all four goals scored by IWU, closing the gap to 9-7.

In the fourth quarter, the Titans scored again to make it 9-8. Despite several efforts and defensive plays, the equalizing goal remained elusive, allowing Carthage to secure the win with a late goal.

Fiandaca led IWU in scoring with three goals, followed by contributions from Gibson, Newton, and Setzler. Defensively, Sarah Riepe led with six ground balls and five forced turnovers. Goalkeeper Lizzie Rymarcsuk logged 12 saves for IWU.

The Titans will end their regular season against Elmhurst University on April 29, which will be a Senior Day event honoring Mia Fiandaca, Avery Setzler, Lizzie Rymarcsuk, and Mallory Mills.