The Oregon Ducks women’s lacrosse team lost to No. 3 Maryland, 15-7, in their first Big Ten conference game of the season on March 14. Despite a strong fourth-quarter effort and a nearly even stat line, Oregon was unable to overcome Maryland’s early lead.
This matchup was significant as it marked the Ducks’ first conference test against one of the top-ranked teams in the nation. The game provided an opportunity for Oregon to measure its progress and compete at a high level within the Big Ten.
Goalkeeper Francesca Viteritti anchored Oregon’s defense with a career-high seven saves against Maryland’s offense. Head coach Jessica Drummond said, “We were looking at some of the stats, and we were pretty even for a lot them. We just need to work finishing our shots and our opportunities. I’m super proud of our defense, great sides. We forced the number three team in the country to have 15 turnovers, while we only had nine. That’s awesome, it’s a huge step for us.” Gabby Santucci led Oregon’s attack with her third hat trick of the season, while Lyla Hurley scored twice and Lexi Jenkins and Emma Ing each added goals.
Santucci opened scoring early in the first quarter before Maryland responded with five unanswered goals. By halftime, Maryland led 10-3 despite efforts from Hurley and Santucci to close the gap. In the second half, Santucci completed her hat trick as Oregon’s defense limited Maryland to three goals in the third quarter.
Drummond said, “We always talk about everybody being ready for a game like today… Gabby did a great job of that today. Anna [Simmons] drew the double and set up Gabby for a great drive right over the top.” Jenkins and Hurley added scores in the fourth quarter as Oregon outscored Maryland 3-2 in that period.
Looking ahead, Drummond said, “We get an opportunity that most teams would dream of… It’s going to push us to raise our standard of play. I was really proud of some of the things we did today… we’re excited to play.” The Ducks will continue their homestand by hosting No. 4 Northwestern on March 21.
