For the first time in program history, the #6-ranked Boston College women's lacrosse team won an NCAA tournament game, downing Bryant 17-9 on Friday on the Newton Campus lacrosse field. Earlier in the day, Loyola dropped UMass, so BC will take on Loyola tomorrow at 1 PM for the right to advance into the Elite Eight.
The Eagles were in total control on Friday, outshooting Bryant 31-16. They also dominated in draw controls, 20-7. BC fell behind 2-0 early, but Kate Rich, Sarah Mannelly, Covie Stanwick, and Moira Berry combined for four goals in two minutes to give BC a lead they would never relinquish. After taking a 10-5 lead into the half, they opened the second frame with a 4-0 run, which really put the game out of reach.
Mikaela Rix continued her stellar season for BC with her 55th and 56th goals of the season. Covie Stanwick scored five goals and Sarah Mannelly scored four to lead the Eagles in scoring on the day. Cali Ceglarski, granddaughter of BC legend Len Ceglarski, also scored in the winning effort.
BC is now 14-5 on the season. Their opponent on Sunday will be no slouch. Loyola is 15-5 this season and came into the tournament ranked #12 in the coaches' poll. In two matchups against ACC teams this year, the Greyhounds defeated Virginia 16-12 and lost in OT to Syracuse, 14-12. After a 2-4 start to their season, they rattled off 12 straight wins, romping to the Patriot League title, with the Syracuse loss being their only blemish.
Tomorrow's winner will face the winner between #2-ranked Syracuse and Stony Brook.
Good luck to the Eagles!