Fairfield, CT - In a three overtime thriller Calen Norton scored the game winner  giving the Gaels a 8-7 win over Sacred Heart securing themselves home field advantage in the second round of the 2025 MAAC Women's Lacrosse Championship. 

Iona's offense was led by sophomore Natasha Newport, senior Kate Krueger, and freshman Jocelyn Smith who all notched three points. Kira Varada and freshman Abby Axe recorded a goal each. Today was a defensive battle as the Gaels only took 20 shots. Despite controlling 13 of the 19 draw controls, Varada had a team and game high six. 

In net redshirt-freshman Ava Giugliano went toe-to-toe against Martin the sacred heart goalie, Ava made 10 saves in just under 73 minutes of play she added two ground balls. Iona was out battled in ground balls and caused turnovers. Krueger had a team high three ground balls. Varada and Burns where the two gaels with two or more caused turnovers. 

Both teams combined to go 2-for-10 on free position opportunities, and they also combined eight yellow cards and eight green cards the most cards in a game this season for the Maroon & Gold. 

Iona as the 4 seed in the 2025 MAAC Championship will host the 5-seed Niagara Purple Eagles vs the 8-seed Rider Broncs on Friday April 25th and then will play the winner on Sunday April 27th. Time for both games are still TBD.