Holland Reporter

The GVSU women's lacrosse team advanced to the GLIAC Championship after securing a victory over Davenport in the tournament semifinals. The game, held in Allendale, Michigan, saw the Lakers triumph with a 12-9 score after overcoming an early deficit.

Davenport initially led the game, scoring four goals in the first quarter without letting Grand Valley State respond. However, the Lakers rallied in the second quarter, scoring seven goals compared to Davenport's one. Zoe Ziegler was the first to score for the Lakers, followed by contributions from Gracie Bancroft, Jillian Bingman, and another from Ziegler. Davenport reclaimed the lead briefly, but Bingman tied the match, and Ella Boose's successive goals secured a 7-5 lead for GVSU at halftime.

In the third quarter, Davenport and GVSU scored alternately, leaving the Lakers ahead by a single goal at 8-7. Davenport pulled ahead briefly in the fourth quarter with two goals, but GVSU responded decisively, ending the game with four consecutive goals. Bancroft scored twice, while Ashleigh Rothe and Bingman also added to the tally.

Ella Boose, Jillian Bingman, and Gracie Bancroft each achieved hat tricks, contributing significantly to the Lakers' victory. Zoe Ziegler scored twice, and Ashleigh Rothe added one. In assisting roles, Boose and Ziegler each contributed two assists, with Rothe, Ainsley Shilling, Kendra Swope, and Leah Leonard each adding one assist.

Sarah Krause earned the win in the goal, making four saves in the second half. Kaylyn Cater contributed with three saves during her time in the game. Kylie Waeghe excelled in draw controls with nine, also collecting three groundballs and causing two turnovers. Both Boose and Kayleigh Sandell secured two draw controls. Defensive contributions included Boose and Elora Ferrie each causing two turnovers, and Ziegler with three groundballs.

The Lakers are set to face Northern Michigan in the championship at noon on Sunday, aiming to secure both the GLIAC regular season and tournament titles.