LA GRANDE, Ore. – In its home opener at Community Stadium on Saturday afternoon, the Eastern Oregon University women's lacrosse team fought hard but came up short against visiting Pacific University, falling by a final score of 16-11.
The Mountaineers displayed resilience throughout the afternoon, responding to Pacific's early scoring with a strong offensive effort. Pacific jumped out to an early lead, scoring four times in the opening quarter and building momentum over the first half. Eastern Oregon stayed within striking distance thanks to multiple goal-scoring threats and late runs in each half, but the Mounties were unable to fully overcome Pacific's offense.
EOU generated 24 total shots, placing 19 on goal, and matched Pacific's pace after the break. While the Boxers held a shot advantage in the first half, the teams were nearly even in the second, with Pacific finishing with just one more attempt over the final two quarters. The Mounties controlled the draw circle for much of the afternoon, but Pacific capitalized on key turnovers to maintain its five-goal cushion and keep Eastern Oregon playing from behind.
Defensively, the Mounties forced 18 turnovers and collected 12 ground balls, consistently working to disrupt Pacific's rhythm. In goal,
Maddie Wicks recorded eight saves, including several critical second-half stops to keep EOU within striking distance.
Gemma Gonzalez paced the offense with six goals on 10 shots while also dominating the draw with 14 controls.
Jade McCoy added two goals and an assist on six shots.
Natanya Reed contributed two goals of her own, and
Alexa O'Callaghan chipped in a late goal in the fourth quarter.
Eastern Oregon returns to action Saturday, Feb. 21, traveling to Newberg to face George Fox University. The opening draw is scheduled for 12 p.m.
