University of Pittsburgh Athletics
Pitt
1-0
Duquesne
0-1
Three Panthers Record Hat Tricks in Rout of Duquesne
2/9/2024 6:52:00 PM | Women's Lacrosse
PITTSBURGH – The Panthers started the 2024 season the same way they have each year in existence so far, a win over Duquesne. This season's version ended more lopsided than the last two, with Pitt taking the 20-2 win at Highmark Stadium Friday night.
"The best part about this win today is working on our two main objectives for the season. Our shooting percentage was excellent tonight and our draw team dominated this game, they were the difference makers," head coach Emily Boissonneault said. "To see every player get on the field and have the opportunity to shine was very important to us and the future of this season."
The scoring started early with a first period goal from fifth year Camdyn O'Donnell less than three minutes into the game. O'Donnell scored off of a nice feed from freshman Avery Moon. Pitt recorded two additional goals in the first fifteen minutes, one from junior Sydney Naylor and another from freshman Kaitlyn Giandonato. Duquesne was able to keep the score close with a late goal of their own to bring the score to 3-1 after one.
In the second quarter, the Panthers took over and never looked back. Junior Jenna Hendrickson scored all four of her game high in goals in the period, including one from the free position. The junior class was well represented on the scoresheet as Talia Zuco added one adn Naylor scored two more to complete her hat trick. Senior Maureen McNierney completed the first half scoring with one of her own unassisted.
The third and fourth quarters were more of the same as Pitt outscored Duquesne 9-1. Ava Washington, Kendall Barnes and Ava Sumwalt scored a goal a piece while O'Donnell, Madigan Lublin and Devon Cavanaugh each added two.
All three goalkeepers on the Panther roster saw time with graduate Audrey Moran leading the way in saves (6). Pitt dominated the draw circle, securing 21 draw controls to Duquesne's five.
The Panthers have started each of their three seasons in existence the same way, with a win over the Dukes. The two goals allowed is the fewest in program history, while the 20 goals scored ranks as the second highest for the blue and gold.
Next up for Pitt Lacrosse is a west coast road trip, as they face the Arizona State Sun Devils next Thursday, February 15.
