When last seen nine months ago, the Ashland University women's lacrosse team was in Indianapolis, playing in the NCAA Division II playoffs for the first time in school history. That team won GMAC regular season and tournament championships.
Saturday, the Eagles made their first public appearance in nine months and even though some rust was evident, the Eagles won going away, stopping Charleston, 18-6.
Thanks to the Arctic Blast that camped throughout the Midwest for the past 10 days, this was Ashland's first time playing outside on a regulation field. Charleston (1-2) had an advantage in that regard, the Golden Eagles had a pair of games under their belt.
That didn't faze the Eagles. Ashland led in shots, 31-17, shots on goal, 24-12 and draw controls, 20-6.
"This was a great team win, we had a lot of contributors today," remarked AU head coach Lauren Simko. "A number of people stepped up on defense. We have some things to clean up on offense, but defensively I thought we played very well."
Ashland was in front, 10-2 at the break and 15-3 after three stanzas.
Nine different Ashland players scored goals. Ashley Drexler had three goals and four assists.Tori Wanat had three goals and an assist and Ashley Fisher and Carlie Wilson had three goals apiece. Rachel Crumbacher tallied two goals and three assists. Lily Cain had a pair of assists.
Riley Walstrum had a goal and an assist as did Sidney Voss. Ayla Perez and Sam Weaver each scored a goal.
The Eagles played three goalkeepers. The bulk of the action went to Annie Duncan who recorded six saves in 45 minutes.
"Annie Duncan played very well," noted Simko. "I thought this was a great way to kick off the season. We're happy with this and now we'll go back to work and clean up some things."
Sylvi Jenner paced the Golden Eagles with a pair of goals.
Ashland's next game is Wednesday (Feb. 18) at Slippery Rock.
