HEMPSTEAD, NY - The Iona College lacrosse team was bested by Hofstra, 18-5, in the squad's 2009 season opener.  Senior Christie Godlewski led the way for the Gaels, recording a goal and three assists in the loss.

Freshman Casey Scully was strong in her Maroon & Gold debut, leading Iona with two goals on the day.  Senior Jillian Beck and sophomore Elizabeth Coholan each added one.

Hofstra scored the first 11 goals of the game, including three apiece by Corrine Gandolfi and Stephanie Rice.  Iona ended the Pride's scoring run as Godlewski scored an unassisted goal with one minute to go in the first half.  Senior goalkeeper Colleen Magri made six of her eight total saves in the opening period with the Gaels being outshot 24-8.

The Pride extended its lead to 15 at the 19:22 mark of the second half, scoring the first five goals of the period to pull ahead 16-1.  With 17:23 remaining, Scully scored off a pass from Godlewski to begin a 4-1 Gael run.  Following three straight Iona tallies, Hofstra added one more to close out the scoring and come away with the 18-5 final.

Lisa Baron led the defense for Iona, picking up three ground balls and causing two turnovers.  Rookie Kelsey Sickles added two ground balls and a pair of caused turnovers.  Coholan finished with a team-high 11 shots including seven shots on goal.

The Gaels play their home opener on Feb. 28, hosting Villanova at 2:00 pm.