It took an overtime period, but Ashland University's lacrosse team won its second in a row on Wednesday (April 10) at Lewis.
The Eagles (4-6 overall, 3-4 GLIAC) won 12-11 over the Flyers.
With the game tied 11-11 at the end of regulation, Ashland needed to find the net after giving up a three-goal lead to allow Lewis the chance at an overtime victory. Freshman Cora Wilson had the magic touch when it mattered most, finishing the net at 2:13 in overtime, and clinching the win for the Eagles.
It took a strong effort from a staple in AU's lineup to win the game.
The goal-scoring ability of junior Sofia Michael was already well-known. Michael solidified that even more on Wednesday night, as she scored eight goals and reclaimed the top spot in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference in goals scored (44).
Michael opened the scoring just 29 seconds into the contest and didn't look back. She netted four goals in each half, contributing to most of the Eagles' offense.
Also scoring for Ashland was senior Lauren Taylor with two goals, junior Renee Ruppert with a goal, and Wilson the game-winner.
The first half was a 6-6 stalemate. Ashland came out of halftime better, getting out to an 8-6 lead thanks to two goals by Michael in the first 3:30 of the second frame. Lewis got one back, then Taylor scored, as did Michael to gain a 10-7 advantage midway through the second half. Michael scored once more at 15:13 to make it 11-8 before the Eagles went on a goal drought that would last the rest of regulation. It only took 47 seconds for Wilson to end that drought once overtime began.
Freshman goalie Corynn Schneider did just enough in front of net to assist in the win, making five saves. Ashland had a strong defensive presence in front of Schneider, allowing just 16 shots on goal.
Both teams were even in most statistical categories, as represented in the final score. The Eagles led 20-16 in shots on goal, and were more efficient getting into their offensive sets, as they converted on 14-of-17 clears, to Lewis' 11-of-18. The Flyers narrowly won more draw controls, 13-12.
Leading the way for Lewis offensively was Alyson Jines, who scored five goals on seven shots on goal. Faith Engle made eight saves in between the pipes for the Flyers in a losing effort.
Ashland is set with a tall task in its next contest on Friday (April 12), as the Eagles travel to play at the Indianapolis, taking on the No. 12-ranked Greyhounds.
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