March 4, 2008
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The 12th-ranked Commodore women’s lacrosse team defeated Virginia Tech, 12-8, Tuesday at the Vanderbilt Lacrosse Complex.
Sarah Downing scored four goals and added two assists for Vanderbilt (5-0) to lead a total of seven Commodore goal scorers. Sophomores Carter Foote and Laura Keenan both tallied multiple goals, with senior Margie Curran, junior Cara Giordano, and sophomores Anastasia Adam and Alex Mundy also finding the back of the net.
Blustery conditions prevailed at the VU Lacrosse Complex, with temperatures in the 40’s and winds howling. Defense prevailed in the cold as both goalkeepers had impressive performances. Vanderbilt senior Brooke Shinaberry stopped eight of the 16 shots on goal, while VT’s Kari Morrison made 13 saves against 12 goals.
In the first half, Keenan opened the scoring for Vanderbilt less than three minutes into the game. The Hokies would tie the game three times and take the lead once before the Commodores scored the final two goals of the half to take a 6-4 lead into intermission.
The Commodores were more patient in the second half and did not let their lead fall below two goals over the final 30 minutes. Downing’s insurance goal with just over a minute to play gave the Commodores their largest lead of the game — the final 12-8 margin.
Defensively, senior Sasha Cielak caused three VT turnovers to lead all players. Senior Ashley Paschall had a game-high four ground balls. Curran continued her dominance on the draw, controlling five in the game.
The Commodores hit the road this weekend, traveling to Chapel Hill to face North Carolina on Saturday, March 8. The opening draw is scheduled for 12 Noon ET. Vanderbilt returns home the following week to begin a four-game homestand against Boston University on Wednesday, March 12, at 5 p.m. CT.
