NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. – The Iona University women's lacrosse team fell to Lehigh University, 12–7, on February 20 at Mazzella Field. The Gaels showcased a strong defensive effort and balanced offensive production but were unable to overcome a first-half surge by the Mountain Hawks.

GAME SUMMARY

Iona struck first when Alyssa Castellano found the back of the net at the 10:56 mark of the opening period, giving the Gaels an early 1–0 advantage. Lehigh answered with a four-goal run to close the first quarter and seize momentum.

The Mountain Hawks extended their lead in the second period, including a man-down goal, but Iona responded with tallies from Haley Lauer and Abby Axe to remain within reach. Lehigh carried an 8–4 lead into halftime.

After the break, both defenses tightened as the teams traded possessions. The Gaels continued to battle, and in the final period, Calen Norton and Jocelyn Smith each scored as Iona outscored Lehigh 2–1 in the closing frame. Despite the late push, the early deficit proved insurmountable.

NOTABLE NUGGETS

• Alyssa Castellano led the offense with two goals on three shots.
• Lindsey Grove and Lauren Feeney each recorded two assists.
• Sydney Langton anchored the defense with five ground balls and five caused turnovers.
• Lauren Sweeney made 10 saves in goal on 22 shots faced.

Additional goals came from Abby Axe, Jocelyn Smith, Calen Norton, Haley Lauer and Brianna Reynolds.

UP NEXT

Iona returns to action on February 28 with a road match-up at Fairleigh Dickinson University. The opening draw is set for 12:00 p.m.