Feb. 21, 2009
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Sarah Downing scored five goals to help the No. 12 Commodores upend visiting UMBC 15-6 Saturday afternoon in the VU Lacrosse Complex. Freshman Natalie Wills also recorded her first win as a Commodore in 60 minutes at goalkeeper.
Vanderbilt (1-1) jumped out to an early first half lead, scoring four times in the first six minutes of the period. Freshman Ally Carey put VU on the board with an unassisted goal three minutes into the tilt.
The `Dores played stifling defense while an aggressive offense built an 8-1 halftime advantage. The Retrievers, however, battled back in the second stanza. UMBC (1-1) clicked off four goals to Vanderbilt’s one in the first seven minutes, pulling within striking distance at 9-5.
Coach Cathy Swezey’s squad then regained the momentum with about 12 minutes remaining, and all but shut the Retrievers down for the rest of the half. Downing, who also passed for two assist, netted three of her five goals over the last 10 minutes as Vanderbilt rebuilt its lead.
Seven different Commodores tallied goals against UMBC. Carey finished with two scores and three assists, while freshman Alex Priddy also netted two. Cara Giordano recorded two goals as well, while Carter Foote totaled one goal and an assist.
Wills finished the game with nine saves and four ground balls.
Vanderbilt returns to action against ALC foe No. 1 Northwestern at 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27.
