WEST LONG BRANCH, NJ - The Iona College lacrosse teamsaw its season come to close with a 13-7 loss to Monmouth University in the first round of the MAAC playoff.  Monmouth's standout goalkeeping and offense proved to give Iona trouble for a second consecutive game.

Senior Mary Kate McCormick capped her stellar career, leading the Gaels offensive attack one last time with three goals on the afternoon.  Four more Gaels netted goals, including juniors Erin Pugh and Grace Celona, sophomore Pamela Giordano and freshman Christine Gironda. Pugh and Gironda each dished out one assist along with sophomore Rachelle Serafini. 

Monmouth started the game off with a two goal run to set the afternoon's pace. Iona answered shortly after on Gironda's goal assisted by Pugh. 

Not to be outdone Monmouth punched right back but the Gaels stood strong responding with a goal from Celona, assisted by Gironda; that brought the score to 3-2. 

The Hawks then proceeded to dominate the rest of the first half, using a four goal run to take a 7-2 lead to the lockeroom. 

Monmouth continued their offensive momentum into the second half with a 4-1 run to bring the game to 10-2. 

Iona high scoring attack had been rendered cold by a standout performance from Monmouth goalkeeper Caroline Huelster who recorded 15 saves on the afternoon.

The Gaels were finally able to turn it around with Pugh's goal that came with 14 minutes remaining in the game. Their offense went off for a 4-1 run to break into the Monmouth lead but time was not on their side as the final horn sounded for a 13-7 Hawks win. 

Both teams were even on shots (29-29). Monmouth secured more ground balls (14-15), draw controls (14-8). Iona won the turnover margin (11-21). 

The Maroon & Gold finish the 2016 season tying a program high nine wins, ending the year 9-9 and 4-4 in the MAAC.