JACKSONVILLE, FL- The Iona College lacrosse team was defeated by Jacksonville University on Saturday afternoon by a finale score of 20 to 5.

The Gaels were led by junior Erin Pugh who had three goals. Senior Mary Kate McCormick also netted one goal and dished out one assist. Freshman Libby Miller chipped in a tally, and Sophomore Jenna Tolzmann  ontributed one assist.  Freshman Danielle Keenan also contributed her first assist of her career. 

Jacksonville took charge early, starting the game with a four goal run. The Gaels would finally strike back at 17:54 in the first half with Pugh's first goal, which was assisted by McCormick. 

The Dolphins would answer back in rapid fashion, and they'd continue to push the pedal to the metal for the remainder of the game.  Jacksonville ended the first half on a seven-to-two run, holding a 12-4 edge on the scoreboard.

The strong showing continuted in the second half for Jacksonville as they would rattle off six straight goals to go up 18-4. Iona finally found the net in the second half with five minutes remaining in the game; Pugh completed the hat trick off of an assist by Keenan to make the score 18-5. 

The Dolphins would score twice more before the final horn. 

Jacksonville bested Iona in shots 37-21. They also secured the advantage on ground balls, 16-8, and turnovers 5-11. 

The Maroon & Gold continue their Florida trip on Tuesday, March 22 with a 7:00 pm matchup at Stetson.