WILKES-BARRE, Pa. – Notre Dame of Maryland lacrosse opened the spring season today on the road at Wilkes University.  The Gators suffered a tough loss to the Colonels, 15-14 in a back and fourth battle that came right to the end of play. 

Wilkes was the first to score to open the game, scoring in the opening minute of play.  After being down by one with eight minutes left in the half, Notre Dame went on a 6-1 run to close out the half.  To open the second half, the Gators held a 9-5 lead.

Notre Dame tagged on two more scores to open the second, taking a 11-5 lead with 27 left in the game.  The Gators were held scoreless over the next eight minutes to allow the Colonels get back in the game going on a 6-0 run.

With 16:41 left on the clock, the score tied at 11, Notre Dame and Wilkes traded runs.  The Gators were the first to strike, going on a three-goal run in under a minute, now up 14-11 with 15:52 to play.
In the final 15 minutes, Wilkes outscored Notre Dame 5-1 to take the victory, 16-15.

Senior Megan Morales led the Gators in goals, notching eight.  Morales nears closer to the 200 career goal mark.  She is now 12 goals away from the milestone.  She also finished with one assist.

Senior Kirstin McGee added five goals in the game, while also leading the team in assists with two and draw controls with eight. 

Freshman Stephanie Morgan and Vanessa Dunn each finished with one goal apiece for their first career goals.

On the defensive end, freshman Katie Hawkins lead the Gators with two caused turnovers.

In goal, sophomore Marie Salas notched 18 saves.  This is the sixth career game she's recorded 18 or more saves.

WHAT'S NEXT?
The Gators are on the road next week, first at Goucher College on Wednesday.  On Saturday, they will travel to Bryn Mawr College.