LISLE, Ill. — The Carthage women's lacrosse team got their 2021 season off to a brilliant start on Wednesday evening, picking up a 16-1 victory over Benedictine (Ill.) at the Village of Lisle-Benedictine University Sports Complex. 

Carthage (1-0) got on the board early as Margaux Giacotto found the back of the net 16 seconds into the game. Maddie Berni, Elizabeth Oda, and Jessie Gibson all registered a goal while Hanna Holloway and Rachel Harris each put in two apiece to make the score 8-0 over Benedictine (Ill.) (0-1). Two minutes later, Holloway scored her third while Halley Davey scored her first goal of the season putting the visitors up 10-0. After the Eagles got on the board, Carthage responded with three straight goals as Holloway scored one and Berni found the back of the net twice. The Firebirds headed into the intermission break up 13-1.  

Carthage added three goals in the second half and went on to win the game 16-1. 

The Firebirds return home to face DePauw on Saturday, March 13 starting at 1 p.m. 

Head Coach Lauren Hein

"What an amazing way to start our season. I could not more proud of our team for all they have sacrificed to get us back on the field together. Their patience, determination, work ethic, and being as safe as possible have not gone unnoticed. 

Our entire season will revolve around being thankful. Thankful for our health, thankful for each other, the refs, the opposing team, the in-game workers, etc. 

Tonight's win was a team win. We know this season will look and feel different than others, but we are excited to continue practicing and preparing for our next game. 

I would also like to congratulate my grad assistant, Emma Hryzan, for her first win as a collegiate coach!!"

Quick Facts

• Four Firebirds recorded two or more goals in the game: Rachel Harris (2), Maddie Berni (3), Jessie Gibson (3) and Hanna Holloway (4).
• Freshman Hannah Koehlert registered a goal in her Carthage debut today while Elizabeth Oda and Margaux Giacotto scored one goal.
• Giacatto and Harris led Carthage in assists with three apiece. 
• In goal, Alessandra Almendarez finished with nine saves in the game. 

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