In a thrilling home opener on Saturday, the Yale women’s lacrosse team proved they are strong contenders for this year’s NCAA tournament, defeating the No. 4 University of Michigan with a decisive score of 12–6.
Yale Athletics
The Bulldogs Rise to the Challenge
In the realm of college athletics, the Michigan Wolverines are often recognized as a formidable powerhouse. However, on Saturday in New Haven, their high-ranking No. 4 women’s lacrosse team faced a challenging foe in the Yale Bulldogs. With an electrifying performance, Yale secured their first victory of the season, overwhelming Michigan with a score of 12–6.
Setting High Expectations
As the season kicked off, the Bulldogs entered with significant expectations after achieving a record-setting 17 wins in the previous season, alongside claiming an Ivy League Championship, a Tournament Championship, and securing two wins in the NCAA Tournament. Their efforts earned them the top spot in the Ivy League Preseason poll.
Strong Start and Dominance
The match commenced with an impressive surge from Yale, led by back-to-back goals from Taylor Lane ’25, Fallon Vaughn ’25, and Ashley Kiernan ’27. Although Michigan managed to score and narrow the gap to 3–1, Jenna Collignon ’25 swiftly responded by netting two additional goals for Yale.
By the conclusion of the first quarter, the Bulldogs held a commanding lead of 5–1.
Defensive Resilience
Despite a determined offensive effort from Michigan, the Bulldogs displayed remarkable defensive capabilities in the second quarter, successfully thwarting the Wolverines’ attempts to capitalize. Following back-to-back goals from Michigan to close the gap to 6–4 by halftime, Yale continued to control possession and force turnovers, maintaining their edge as they entered the break.
Sustained Offensive Prowess
After halftime, the intensity of the match remained. The Bulldogs retained their poise on the field, consistently repelling Michigan’s efforts to equalize. Yale’s offensive talent was prominent during this period, highlighted by goals from Vaughn and Taylor Everson ’25, along with two unassisted goals from sophomore Karina Herrera ’27.
Securing the Victory
As the fourth quarter unfolded, the Bulldogs extended their lead further, adding four goals while limiting Michigan to just three shots on goal throughout the final stretch. The dominant performance culminated in a satisfying 12–6 victory for Yale.
Recognition for Key Performances
Following the game, goalie Cami Donadio ’25 was honored as the Ivy League Defensive Player of the Week. Her six crucial saves during the match, including two against Michigan’s preseason All-America attacker Jill Smith, were pivotal in cementing the Bulldogs’ victory.
Looking Ahead
With this impressive victory behind them, the Bulldogs are now set to face their local rivals, Quinnipiac, today, February 18, at 2 p.m.
