PAINESVILLE, Ohio — The Lake Erie women's lacrosse team hosted the Concordia University St. Paul Golden Bears for their last non-conference match-up of the 2024 season. The Storm was unable to overcome the Golden Bears' offense despite strong efforts, as the score ended in a 19-6 loss. Lake Erie moves to a 4-5 record going into G-MAC play. 

The Golden Bears were quick to take the lead in the first period, scoring six goals. The Storm combated with a free position goal from Cynthia Saxby, but could not find the net with the clock running out in the first, 6-1. 

The Storm were early to respond in the second quarter, with Brooke McNeal scoring off a free position attempt. The team kept the momentum going with another goal from Shannon Smith, assisted by Madelyn Goodrich. Emma Rhoades scored soon after, to bring Lake Erie to a 4-6 deficit. The Golden Bears fought back with a goal, but Saxby was fast to match it with another goal, with Goodrich on the assist. The first half finished up with the Storm down by two. 

Despite the strong second period with the Storm making a comeback, Concordia took over the third period. The Golden Bears scored seven unanswered goals, bringing the score to 14-5 going into the last period. 

Concordia was early to score in the fourth, yet Rhoades quickly matched it with her second goal of the game. Unfortunately the Golden Bears held and furthered their lead into the end of the game, with a final score of 19-6. 

Saxby and Rhoades led the Storm for the day with two goals each. Mea Lally picked up two ground balls and caused three turnovers. Avery Artino was in the goal for the Storm picking up five saves. Bethany Kirkwood took over late in the fourth. 

The Storm begin their conference play on Tuesday, March 19th at 4 PM to take on the Walsh Cavaliers on the road.