CHARLESTON, WV – The University of Charleston women's lacrosse team closed out its historic season with a hard-fought 12-8 loss to Dominican University of California in the Mountain East Conference semifinals at the Welch Athletic Complex.
The Basics:
- Location: Welch Athletic Complex
- Score: UC 8, DUC 12
- Records: UC 12-6 (6-2 MEC), DUC 12-1
How it Happened:
Facing Dominican for the first time, Charleston entered the game with uncertainty, and Dominican wasted no time asserting control. The Penguins dominated the opening quarter, holding the Golden Eagles to just four shots while pouring in five goals of their own to take a commanding lead.
Charleston looked to respond in the second quarter. The opening minutes were evenly contested, with UC gradually finding its rhythm on offense. Dominican added another goal midway through the quarter, but a green card gave Charleston a spark. Freshman Alyse Weber broke the scoring drought with UC's first goal. That momentum continued as Sylvi Jenner assisted CJ Cook, then added a goal of her own. Hayden Slinkard's late goal cut the deficit to 7-4 at halftime, giving Charleston life.
The third quarter was a back-and-forth affair. Dominican extended its lead with two quick goals, including one while up a player. Charleston answered through Weber, who buried back-to-back free position shots to make it 9-6 heading into the final period.
Charleston continued to fight in the fourth. After a physical start and a green card to Weber, Dominican capitalized with another goal. But UC responded once again. Dominican goalkeeper Kyra Oyler made two crucial saves, but Willow Cooper found the net before Weber scored her fourth of the day, narrowing the gap to 10-8. Unfortunately, the Penguins closed strong with two late goals to secure the 12-8 win.
Freshman Alyse Weber capped off an impressive debut season with four goals in the semifinal loss.
Charleston finishes the season 12-6 overall and 6-2 in MEC play, marking the most successful campaign in program history.
