By Zach Flesch / The Jambar
The Youngstown State University women’s lacrosse team dropped a tough 14-13 decision to the University of Akron in its Mid-American Conference opener March 16 at the Watson and Tressel Training Site.
Sophomores Katie Grottenthaler, Ava Kreutzer, Grace Rund and Mia Yuris each tied for the team lead with two goals.
Grottenthaler added a team-high two assists to finish with a team-high four points, while also garnering six draw controls to lead the Penguins.
Despite a close match, the Zips edged out YSU in total shots 33-30.
Akron had heavy control of the draws throughout the game, winning the battle 20-10, including an 8-3 advantage in the fourth quarter.
Youngstown State dropped its second MAC matchup to Eastern Michigan University on March 23 at Scicluna Field.
Kreutzer was the lone Penguin to score multiple goals as she led the way with three. She also recorded her second hat trick of the season and seventh straight game with multiple goals.
Sophomore Lena Cox had a team-high two assists, both of which set up Kreutzer’s goals.
Sophomore Tori Bustamante set a new season high with six ground balls, while also tying a season-high with four caused turnovers.
YSU finished the game with 26 shots — 14 of which came on goal — compared to 34 shots and 26 coming on goal for the Eagles.
Eastern Michigan won the draw control battle, 23-5 en route to a 19-6 victory.
The Penguins will be back at home under the lights at 6 p.m. March 29 against Robert Morris University. The matchup marks the teams first outdoor home game this season at Farmers National Bank Field.