This afternoon, the Elon University lacrosse team defeated Hofstra 15-7 at Rudd Field to celebrate the last home game for 11 seniors.
Both teams were joined by a torrential downpour for the majority of the game, but the Phoenix appeared unaffected by the conditions. After scoring six unanswered goals in the first 10 minutes of play, Elon kept the momentum as they totaled a season-high of 13 goals in the first half.
While emphasis was placed on the seniors, the win was a team effort. With six different scorers, Elon’s offense was led by junior Nicole Sinacori, who finished with four goals and one assist. Freshman Melissa Birdsell and senior Sloane Kessler both scored three goals. Kessler also scored the program’s first ever goal in 2014.
“We’re going to focus on enjoying this for the seniors, but mostly for the whole team," said head coach Josh Hexter. "This was a solid team win from the freshman all the way up to the seniors.”
While Elon’s leading scorer, Stephanie Asher, was face-guarded the entire game by Hofstra’s Elena Schorr, she managed to finish the game with two goals and two assists.
“Steph’s a huge part of our offense, but everyone [we have] out there is a threat,” Kessler said. “We all really played for each other today.”
In addition to offensive play, Elon held strong on the defensive end of the field, as senior goalie Rachel Ramirez totaled six saves of Hofstra’s 14 shots. The Phoenix outshot the Pride 26-14 and forced a total of 21 turnovers on the game.
“We had great transition, we worked together… Everything that we prepared for in the past week, we implemented,” said Ramirez.
With practice and preparation leading to a huge home win, Elon feels confident to close out regular season play against William and Mary this Saturday at 1:00 in Williamsburg, VA.