After the danger of a winter storm on April 1, the women’s lacrosse team faced Holy Cross on April 2. The cold weather in Worcester, Mass. did not stop the intensity of the two teams. In a very important Patriot League match-up, both teams looked to improve their divisional record. Before the game, the Bison were 6-4 overall but only 1-2 in the Patriot League. Last year, the game against Holy Cross ended in a close 10-9 game favoring the Bison, making the spotlight on this year’s contest even brighter.

As expected, the first half of the game was a gridlock. Both teams had nine shots on goal, nine ground balls, and the score was tied 4-4. However, the second half started with Holy Cross setting the pace, scoring two goals in a little over a minute. The Bison quickly responded and dominated the rest of the game by scoring the next six goals. The Orange and Blue held onto their lead and claimed the victory 11-8.

Jamie DeWitt ’19 had an impressive performance in goal. Saving seven shots in the second half alone, DeWitt had a strong impact on the win. Holy Cross outshot Bucknell 26-20, but DeWitt stood her ground at the end to clinch the win. Audrey Walsh ’19 also led the way for the Orange and the Blue by scoring a hat trick in the game. Walsh has been a consistent presence on attack this year. This game marks the second time this season Walsh has recorded three goals in one game.

“Audrey Walsh has really been making an impact on the attack. She came ready to play this year and has been unstoppable. She really is a rock on our attacking end and I think we will continue to see great things from her for the rest of the season and the following seasons to come,” DeWitt said.

The team’s first-years also took advantage of playing time in the game. Kate Fiore ’20, Jessie Britton ’20, Sarah Dohler ’20, and Morgan Steinhacker ’20 all played important roles in the win. Tace Sutherland ’20 even scored at the midfield position. The depth from the bench is a valuable asset to have in this competitive league.

The Bison will finish the season with five consecutive Patriot League games. It is important for them to finish strong with the Patriot League tournament less than a month away. The team looks to start a winning streak as they face American University on April 8 at 1 p.m. in Washington.

“We really as a whole want to have a team win against American and use that game to show everyone in the Patriot League what we are all about,” DeWitt said.

The Orange and Blue are set to face Loyola and Lehigh in the coming weeks.