Ronald Hanaki
Staff Writer
ESU’s Women’s Lacrosse team returned to PSAC action by beating the Seton Hill University Griffins 16-4 in a road game last Saturday. This was a dominant performance by the defending conference champions.
Freshman attack Krista Mitarotonda scored the first two goals of the game.
Seton Hill freshman midfielder Courtney Pontious answered for the Griffins with an unassisted goal to make the score 2-1 ESU. But that was the last time that this game was close as the next seven out of eight goals were scored by the Warriors.
ESU took a commanding 9-2 lead into halftime. The Warriors continued their dominance in the second half.
ESU scored seven out of the next nine goals to post a convincing 16-4 win. It was ESU’s first PSAC win of the season.
Head Coach Xeni Barakos said, “We played together against Seton Hill. I just think we played really well.”
Mitarotonda finished the game with six goals and one assist.
Other outstanding contributors for the Warriors were sophomore midfielder Hana Cicerelle with four goals and senior midfielder Alicia Stratten with two goals.
Sophomore goalkeeper Tatyana Petteway was her usual outstanding self in the cage and made seven saves for the Warriors.
Mitarotonda is off to a flying start this season. She has already posted 11 goals and one assist in only three games. She is averaging four points per game.
But Barakos is not surprised by the freshman attack’s early success.
“I did expect it,” stated Barakos.
“Krista is an outstanding athlete,” said Barakos. “Her height brings a new dynamic to our team.”
“I am excited to see her continue to grow on the field,” said Barakos.
Barakos also offered praise for her two freshmen starters on defense, Kristen Andreychak and Kayleigh Pokrivka.
“They are both playing outstanding,” said Barakos.
“Every day, we continue to improve,” said Barakos. “I am looking forward to continuing PSAC play.”
“New year, new team,” stated Barakos.
The Warriors (2-1, 1-0) will host Edinboro this Saturday.
Email Ronald at:
rhanaki@live.esu.edu