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KENNESAW, Ga. – Kennesaw State women's lacrosse closed out its home slate with a big third quarter and a several defensive stands in the fourth for an 11-10 victory over Stetson on Thursday afternoon from Walens Family Field at Fifth Third Stadium. The win evened the Owls' record at 8-8, and more importantly moved them into a tie for fifth place in the Atlantic Sun conference standings at 3-4. The top six teams will advance to next month's ASUN Tournament.
KEY PLAYERS: Lavona Watkins led the Owls with three goals, including two key scores to help Kennesaw State regain momentum. Lexi Tinker added a goal and three assists, driving the offense throughout, while Caleigh Shore controlled possession with multiple draw wins and a goal. Jordyn Olivo contributed two goals, including the eventual game-winner, and Roxy Surridge secured her first career win with six second-half saves in goal.
THE RUNDOWN:
First Quarter — The Owls surged out of the gate behind strong draw control play from Shore. Watkins and Tinker scored back-to-back goals, followed by Olivo finishing an assist from Tinker less than four minutes later. Thirty seconds after that, Cohen Ridenour added another off a Tinker assist, with Watkins winning the draw to help build a 4-0 lead. Stetson responded with its first goal, but Shore answered before the end of the quarter to give Kennesaw State a 5-1 advantage.
Second Quarter — The Hatters found momentum in the second, scoring six unanswered goals to take a 7-5 lead. Kennesaw State responded late in the half with goals from Marleigh Belinfanti and Watkins to even the score at 7-7 heading into halftime.
Third Quarter — Surridge entered in goal and helped stabilize the Owls defensively. Kennesaw State controlled possession, winning six of seven draw controls in the period, including three by Shore. After trading goals early, the Owls closed the quarter on a 3-0 run with scores from Belinfanti, Watkins and Olivo to take an 11-9 lead.
Fourth Quarter — Defense dictated the closing minutes. Stetson managed just one goal in the period, while the Owls held firm to preserve the 11-10 win.
POSTGAME QUOTE – HEAD COACH LAURA MANESS
"Today I saw our offense apply what we worked on in practice into the game, and just really shine and make each other shine. Setting each other up for success. So, I think that's a real testament to how hard they worked to prepare for the game, and the buy into the game plan. Then, they were all super productive with a great shot collection today."
NOTES
NEXT TIME OUT: Kennesaw State hits the road to face Coastal Carolina Chanticleers on April 22 at noon, with a chance to clinch a spot in the ASUN Conference Tournament.
The Champions Fund
The Champions Fund is a newly created, 100% tax deductible, philanthropic opportunity to contribute strategic revenue to Kennesaw State Athletics, with the goal of strengthening our ability to recruit and retain top-tier talent in this new era of collegiate athletics. Contributions to the Champions Fund will help aid in funding student-athlete recruitment and retention, as well as helping the Owls provide competitive excellence through investments in coaching, travel and facilities. The fund will also give an elevated student-athlete experience, including enhanced academic, nutrition, wellness, and leadership programs. Donate to the Champions Fund here and help us support our Kennesaw State Owls.
