Villanova fed off the energy of Senior Night with two victories over Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and Mount Saint Mary’s on Saturday, April 6. The Wildcats fell short against La Salle the following day, finishing the weekend, 2–1.
The team celebrated its three seniors, captain attacker Stella Byles, goalie Abigail Shelby and center D Tiane Paris, for their hard work and dedication to the team over the years.
The action kicked off against VMI, where a hat trick from freshman center D Lauren Short helped lead the ‘Cats to a 19–12 victory.
The offensive production from the team was strong, as 10 different Wildcats put the ball in the net. Six recorded multiple goals on the day. Byles had three assists, and Shelby picked up the win, while three goalies saw action.
Later in the night, the ‘Cats took on Mount Saint Mary’s in a hard-fought match and won, 13–11. Byles was on fire again, recording seven goals, along with three assists.
Sophomore attacker Anna Painter and junior center Emily McKenzie added to the offensive firepower with two goals each. Sophomore utility Sara Withers also contributed some goals and assists in the collaborative effort. Shelby had some crucial saves in tough situations, and her stifling defensive impact has been felt all season long.
The Wildcats looked to avenge a tough loss from earlier in the season against La Salle on Sunday. Unfortunately, they came up short again, 13–8.
Shelby recorded seven saves, while Byles and McKenzie each scored two goals apiece. Freshman attacker Tiffany Maguire also added a goal, while Withers led the team in assists with two.
Sitting at 21–8 on the season, the Wildcats will play their last three games of the regular season this upcoming weekend.
History is at stake, as the team is just two victories shy of matching the single season wins record in program history, set back in 1999. In Villanova’s 21 victories, it has surpassed double-digits on the scoreboard in every game. The ‘Cats look to maintain their strong offensive production in practice leading up to the weekend.
“We need to focus this week on our shooting and defense,” head coach Michael Gordon said. “Bringing energy to each practice to put us in a position to play well this weekend.”
