Spiders lose to UVA, first season loss

The 10th-ranked University of Richmond Women’s Lacrosse team suffered a 15-9 loss to the 18th-ranked University of Virginia on Friday, Feb. 19. This was the Spiders' first loss of the early season. 

In the opening minutes, an early Spider turnover allowed UVA to strike first. However, seconds later, sophomore midfielder Kendall Duffy scored a goal from the slot, tying the game 1-1. 

In the first five minutes, the Spiders committed four fouls. This led to three free-position goals for UVA, pushing the lead to 1-4. UVA was also able to control the draw early on. UVA freshman midfielder Mackenzie Hoeg finished the first half with seven draws controlled. With this, UVA was able to possess the ball consistently on offense. In a span of six minutes, UVA outscored the Spiders 7-0. With 19:30 remaining in the half, UVA led 8-1.

After the Spiders won the next draw, UVA committed two fouls, which gave the Spiders a two-man advantage on the field. Sophomore midfielder Lindsey Frank capitalized on this opportunity and scored back-to-back goals for UR, pulling the lead down to five. 

However, UVA continued to put defensive pressure on the Spiders and was able to force a turnover in the next possession. UVA responded right back with back-to-back goals from redshirt junior attack Ashlyn McGovern. UVA led 3-11 with five minutes left in the half.

Despite the early struggles, the Spiders were able to gain some offensive rhythm near the end of the first half. At halftime, the Spiders were down 5-11.

The Spiders continued their momentum right into the second half. UR was able to force a turnover which led to freshman attack Marymargaret Quinn's first career goal. Minutes later, redshirt senior attack Sam Geiersbach was able to score on a free position, cutting the lead to four.

Defensively, the Spiders continued to foul UVA. This ultimately led to high percentage goal opportunities for UVA, who outscored UR three to one throughout the middle of the second half. In total, the Spiders finished with 18 fouls.

Down by six with nine minutes left, UR graduate student goalie Megan Gianforte made several consecutive saves that kept the Spiders still in the game.

The Spiders had scoring opportunities down the stretch, but UVA redshirt senior goalie Charlie Campbell was able to deny UR right in front of the net several times, helping to close out the 9-15 victory.

UVA finished the game with 23 shots on goal while the Spiders finished with 21. Frank lead UR with three goals and one assist.

The Spiders look to get back in the win column with an away game at 3 p.m. on Feb. 27 against William & Mary.

Contact sports writer Henry Daniel at henry.daniel@richmond.edu.