WEST LONG BRANCH, NJ— The Iona College lacrosse team fell to Monmouth University 17-10 in its regular season finale. The Gaels could not overcome what was a strong first half performance by the Hawks.

Sophomore Pamela Giordano continued to lead the Gaels offense with four goals, recording her third straight game of three or more goals.  Junior Rachelle Serafini netted two goals and one assist. Senior Mary Kate McCormick got her 200th career point on her lone goal in the first half, becoming the second Gael ever to reach 200 points. She also led the Maroon & Gold with two dimes for the Gaels. 

Juniors Erin Pugh and Grace Celona both recorded a goal. Freshman Christine Gironda also found the back of the net and dished out one assist.

Monmouth started out of the gate with a three goal run to take an early lead. McCormick responded with her goal shortly after. 

The Hawks snuck another quick goal in before the Gaels responded courtesy of Celona to bring game to 4-2. 

Monmouth then proceeded to take control for the majority of the first half courtesy of a seven-nothing run to bring its advantage to 11-2. 

The Hawks took a 12-5 lead heading into halftime.

At the start of the second half,  Monmouth put up a quick goal, but Iona put together their second three goal run of the contest to make it 13-8. 

The five-goal margin would be ask close as the Maroon & Gold would get.  The Hawks outscored the Gaels 4-2 in the final 15 minutes to bring the final to 17-10. 

Monmouth outshot Iona (35-22) and secured more ground balls (22-15) and won the turnover margin (15-18). Iona secured more draw controls (16-13).

The Maroon & Gold will take on Monmouth in the first round of the MAAC Championship this Saturday, April 30. The time has yet to be determined.