Central Michigan University
-69, 25 ASun
Howard University
-013, 07 ASun
Lacrosse Posts 11-5 Atlantic Sun Win
4/29/2016 12:00:00 AM | Lacrosse
Zach Libby, CMUChippewas.com
MOUNT PLEASANT, Mich. -- Smiles formed on the faces of both coaches and players on the Central Michigan bench Friday night following the Chippewas' 11-5 Atlantic Sun Conference lacrosse win over Howard.
From the outside, it may have seem odd that a team out of contention for the league tournament would garner satisfaction from what unfolded as a rather convincing victory over a Howard program that has yet to win a game this season.
Regardless, the consensus among the Chippewas is that they are doing everything possible in building the foundation for next season and seasons beyond. That starts with beating opponents the Chippewas, who improved to 6-9 overall, 2-5 league, are expected to beat and showing others that they have the capability in knocking off more experienced and well established programs.
The six-goal triumph in front of a near-capacity crowd at the CMU Soccer-Lacrosse Stadium upped the Chippewas' home record to 4-2.
Jocelyne Lemay scored four goals on eight shots to lead the Chippweas, while Natalie Bloniarz added two goals, the first of which broke the ice just four minutes after the opening faceoff.
Anna Schoonover, Logan Halvorson, Kaitlin Kimble, Riley Huda and Rachel Morin also scored for the Chippewas, who finished with a 28-15 advantage in shots and controlled 15 draws to Howard's four. CMU led 7-1 at halftime and was up, 10-2, midway through the second half.
"Everyone got the chance to play," coach Sara Tisdale said. "Glad to see everyone getting in there and get some good touches.
"Our offense did a great job in keeping the ball. We emphasized how important the ride was this game and keeping the ball in the offensive zone. The first half really was an indicative of our game plan."
Dominique Hamman, Clare Laughery and Katherine Elwell each spent time in goal for the Chippewas. It was the first appearance of the season for Elwell, who made three saves.
"We're excited that (Katherine) was able to get in the cage for us," Tisdale said. "She did a good job for her first college game ever. Both of our other goalies have had the opportunity to play now in 14 games and this is her first one, so she did a good job,"
The Chippewas play host to Old Dominion on Sunday at noon in their season finale. The Monarchs are 13-3, 6-1 after posting a 17-12 win over Detroit on Friday.
