The University of Pennsylvania women’s lacrosse team defeated Columbia 15-8 at Franklin Field, according to a March 28 announcement. Regan O’Brien tied her career-high with seven points, helping Penn secure its second Ivy League victory of the season.
This win is significant for the Quakers as it improves their conference record and provides momentum as they approach the middle of their season. The game featured contributions from several players, including Catherine Berkery, Patricia Columbia-Walsh, Quinny Handley, Avery Le, Mary Sack, and Mae Zaremba who all scored goals. Senior Columbia-Walsh also recorded three assists in addition to her two goals.
Defensively, Clare Ruff led Penn with three caused turnovers and three ground balls. Goalkeeper Orly Sedransk made six saves against the Lions’ offense. Freshman Millie Bartlett was effective on draw controls, winning six for the Red and Blue.
O’Brien and Berkery opened scoring in the first five minutes of play. After an early response from Columbia on a player-up opportunity, both teams traded goals throughout the first quarter before Penn led 4-2 after fifteen minutes. The Lions evened the score early in the second quarter before Sack scored late in the half to give Penn a one-goal lead at halftime.
Penn’s offense surged after halftime with nine unanswered goals stretching into the fourth quarter for a commanding 14-4 advantage. Although Columbia managed several late scores, O’Brien’s fifth goal sealed Penn’s victory.
Looking ahead, Penn (4-5 overall; 2-0 Ivy League) will return to Franklin Field on Saturday, April 4 to host Harvard at noon.
