NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Ella Smith tallied her second career hat trick to help lead Vanderbilt a 13-9 win over Mercer on Wednesday afternoon at the Vanderbilt Lacrosse Complex.
Smith also dished two assists for a career-high five points in the game.
Give the 🎩 to Ella! #AnchorDown pic.twitter.com/sIMnS9Ei0A
— Vanderbilt Lacrosse (@VandyLacrosse) March 13, 2024
Vanderbilt (5-2) held Mercer (3-3) scoreless until the 12:35 mark in the second quarter. The Dores went on to score four straight goals, two of which came from junior Cate Bradley, to take an 8-2 lead into the break.
Mercer’s Caroline Glus scored three goals in the opening two minutes of the second half but Vandy responded with three goals to extend their lead. Mercer goalie Kate Vanderlinde registered 10 saves on the day.
For the Dores, Sammy Nuchow scored her first goal on the season while Bradley posted four points off two goals and two assists. Molly Finlay added two goals for the Commodores. In cage, Lexie de Roziere posted nine saves.
First goal of season for Sammy 📸#AnchorDown pic.twitter.com/iuC5E8RseB
— Vanderbilt Lacrosse (@VandyLacrosse) March 13, 2024
The Dores open conference play Saturday, traveling to Temple for an American Athletic Conference matchup. First draw is set for 11 a.m. CT and will be shown on ESPN+.
