In a commanding display at SHI Stadium, Rutgers women's lacrosse team secured a decisive 17-7 victory over Hofstra. The Scarlet Knights, now 4-2, never let the Pride gain an edge, outshooting them 35-22 and pulling away with a strong 10-5 second half.
Sophomore standout Caroline Ling was on fire, tying her career high with seven points, thanks to five goals and two assists. Freshman sensation Kate Theofield also made her mark, netting a career-high four goals on six attempts. Meanwhile, senior Lily Dixon was the playmaker of the day, dishing out five assists and surpassing Marin Hartshorn's program record with 94 career assists.
The Scarlet Knights celebrated their triumph on social media, sharing the excitement with fans.
Contributions came from all corners, as redshirt sophomore Samantha Swanovich, sophomores Hilary Elsner and Delainey Sutley, and rookie Gabby Mariani all added multiple points. Mariani celebrated her first collegiate goal, marking a memorable milestone.
Dominance in the center circle was key, with senior Katie Buck setting a program record with 14 draw controls, leading Rutgers to a 17-8 advantage. Buck also caused three turnovers, further cementing her impact. Between the pipes, graduate student Simone Koryszewski was a force, saving seven shots in the first half to notch her fourth win of the season.
Rutgers set the tone early with a 4-1 scoring run in the opening 12 minutes, thanks to Dixon's back-to-back assists, including a crucial feed to Sutley. After Hofstra narrowed the gap, Rutgers responded with five unanswered goals, capitalizing on player-up opportunities. Mariani's unassisted effort pushed the lead to 9-2 early in the third quarter.
Hofstra attempted a comeback, closing within four, but Rutgers slammed the door shut with six straight goals. Theofield dazzled with three goals during this stretch, including a stunning behind-the-back finish from a Dixon pass, pushing the lead to 15-5. The teams traded goals late, but Rutgers emerged with a convincing 17-7 win.
The Scarlet Knights will hit the road next, facing Temple in Philadelphia on March 7. Fans can catch the action on ESPN+ with the first draw set for noon.