Stanford, Calif. - A Tough Outing for USC Lacrosse Against No. 2 Stanford
In a challenging matchup at Laird Q. Cagan Stadium, the USC lacrosse team faced a formidable Stanford squad, falling 18-4. This game highlighted the strength of Stanford's lineup and the areas where USC will need to focus moving forward.
Key Players and Highlights
For the Trojans, redshirt junior midfielder Hollis Mulry stood out with two goals and three ground balls, showing her resilience on the field. Sophomore Alex May also contributed two goals and added a ground ball to her stats. Redshirt junior Hannah Barron and sophomore defender Coco Hauck were active defensively, with Barron recording two ground balls and a caused turnover, while Hauck added two ground balls and a turnover.
In goal, sophomore Ellie Thomas played the full match, making four saves against a relentless Stanford attack.
Stanford's offense was spearheaded by Ava Arceri, who netted four goals. Aliya Polisky was a playmaker, finishing with three goals and a remarkable six assists, totaling nine points.
Rylee Bouvier was a defensive force with four caused turnovers and two goals. Lindsey Devir also added three goals to the Cardinal's tally.
Annabel Frist and Jordyn Case were dominant in the draw circle, each securing five draw controls.
Game Breakdown
The Cardinal set the tone early, scoring three goals in the first quarter while stifling USC's offense, not allowing a single shot and capitalizing on nine turnovers. Alex May broke through with USC’s first goal in the second quarter, but Stanford responded quickly, maintaining a 5-2 lead at halftime.
The third quarter saw Stanford outshoot USC 12-1, going on a 9-0 run to extend their lead to 14-2. Despite Mulry's efforts to stop the momentum with a late goal, Stanford continued their offensive onslaught in the fourth quarter, eventually securing an 18-4 victory.
Looking Ahead
USC will aim to regroup as they continue their road trip to face Arizona State in Tempe. This matchup offers a chance for the Trojans to bounce back and refine their strategies.
Game Notes
The loss marks USC's third consecutive defeat to Stanford, bringing their all-time record against the Cardinal to 9-13. The Trojans are now 1-1 in away games this season and hold a 21-8 record in Northern California, including 4-8 at Stanford.
This 14-goal defeat is the largest in the history of USC's series with Stanford and ties the program's record for the largest loss margin, previously set against Northwestern in 2013.
For more updates and to follow the team, fans can visit USCTrojans.com/LAX or follow @USCTrojansLax on social media.