NEW ROCHELLE, NY - The Iona College lacrosse team closed out a three game home stand with a 15-8 win over Niagara in the final contest of the year.  The Gaels put up eight goals in the first half and seven in the second to end the 2010 campaign at 5-11 overall with a 2-4 mark in MAAC play.

The team honored its four graduating seniors - Courtney Hocking, Kasey Hughes, Carlee Street, and Victoria Vivonetto - prior to the noon tilt.  Junior Elizabeth Coholan had five goals and one assist to lead all players with six points.  Hughes , Casey Scully, Caitlyn Collins, and Amber Zimmerlink each added a pair of goals while Emily Taddei and Kayla Smith both had one.

Nicole Karek recorded a hat trick to lead the Purple Eagles with three goals, followed by two from Courtney Formato.  Rianne Farrugia, Lauren Brown, and Emily French rounded out the Niagara scorers.

Iona's shot total of 44 was the highest for the Maroon & Gold in a conference game this season.  The squad led 32-16 in shots on goal, 23-11 in ground balls, 18-15 in successful clears, 16-18 in draw controls, and 9-3 in caused turnovers.  Senior goalkeeper Carlee Street made eight saves in her final game in front of Iona's net while Niagara's Alma Aponte stopped 17.