Falcons snaps losing streak with convincing MWLC victory over Loras

MEQUON, Wis. – Concordia University Wisconsin snapped a three-game losing streak on Sunday afternoon with a convincing 19-2 victory over Loras College at Fitting Field to begin Midwest Women's Lacrosse Conference play.

The Falcons opened the game with two goals in just 33 seconds, the first coming a mere 16 seconds into the matchup (four seconds shy of tying the program record). They also tallied 14 unanswered goals during a 44 minute and 29 second stretch spanning from the first to second halves.

CUW (2-3, 1-0 MWLC) controlled both ends of the field and held a 40-6 shots advantage, including 32-4 on goal, and forced 30 turnovers of which 19 were caused (fourth highest in a game in program history). The Falcons also cleared 12-of-14 attempts and held the Duhawks to 4-of-17 on clear chances.

Freshman Allison Kurek (Chicago, Ill.) led all players with five points, including four goals, to go along with four ground balls, two draw control wins and a caused turnover. Senior Hayley Peppers (Franktown, Colo.) played well all-around and recorded three goals, five ground balls, four draw control wins and tied the program's game record with five caused turnovers.

As well, four other Falcons found the back of the net twice, 10 players scored at least once and six players had at least three points. Freshman Caitlin Henry (Lansing, Ill.) scored a free-position goal, assisted on a marker, picked up four ground balls and caused three turnovers. Freshman Amanda McKay (Portland, Ore.) added a goal, assisted on two scored, picked up two ground balls, won three draw controls and caused three turnovers.

Senior Rebecca David (Oregon, Wis.) faced just four shots and made a save in each half to earn the win. Her counterpart, Ashley McGee, tallied 13 saves in a losing effort.

Kaitlyn Kusch scored a free-position goal for the Duhawks (1-3, 0-1 MWLC) and won four draw controls. Sarah Hanson added the visitor's other goal, while McGee picked up a team-high seven ground balls. Sammi Wichgers caused a team-best three turnovers.

Senior Steph Barry (Gurnee, Ill.) tallied her 50th career goal with 18:40 to play in the game and senior Hannah Redden (Libertyville, Ill.) surpassed the 100-point plateau with an assist to McKay on the second goal of the contest. As well, Peppers also won her 150th career draw control seconds into the victory. In the three games in program history against the Duhawks, the Falcons have outscored them 57-6.

CUW returns to the field at Alma College on Saturday at 4 pm and at Benedictine University on Sunday at 1 pm.