NASHVILLE, Tenn. –Nancy Halleron tallied another four-goal performance to lift Vanderbilt to an 18-9 victory over Xavier on Wednesday afternoon at the Vanderbilt Lacrosse Complex.
The Commodores jumped out to an early 5-0 lead powered by Halleron’s back-to-back goals in the opening five minutes of the contest. Lola Mancuso scored for Xavier with eight seconds remaining in the first period to avoid the shutout. The Dores dominated from the opening draw, winning six of seven in the opening frame. Vandy outscored Xavier 5-2 over the second period to take a 10-3 lead at the break. Xavier held the Dores scoreless for the opening six minutes of the second half but it was all Commodores the rest of the way as Vandy claimed its eighth win of the year.
Jaime Biskup and Maddie Barkate each posted hat tricks for Vanderbilt (8-8), with Biskup striking twice unassisted and Barkate notching one off a feed from Alex Gladding. Kemper Robinson added two goals of her own, while Brooke Baker and Cate Bradley each dished two assists. Molly Joyce anchored the effort in cage with 12 saves, including a five-save performance in the final frame to keep the Musketeers at bay.
Xavier (1-13) outscored Vandy 4-3 in the fourth quarter but the Commodore defense held steady. Mancuso had team-leading three goal while Machaela Henry chipped in two goals and an assist. The Musketeers managed the draw control battle, 16-14, led by Morgan Handzel.
The Commodores close the regular season on Saturday afternoon hosting Old Dominion. Opening draw is slated for noon and can be seen on ESPN+. During a special pregame ceremony, Vanderbilt will recognize 10 seniors for their contributions and dedication to the program.
