Second-half surge powers women’s lacrosse to 10th win of season

By Paige Apps, Sports Reporter

The Canisius women’s lacrosse team continues to find ways to win as conference play intensifies, leaning on depth, experience and timely execution to build momentum in the heart of the season.

Their latest result showcased that formula as Canisius rallied from a halftime deficit to defeat the Sacred Heart Pioneers. The victory lifted the Griffs to 10–4 overall and 4–2 in MAAC play, marking the third time in the past five seasons the program has reached double-digit wins under Head Coach Russell Allen.

Much like several games this season, Canisius showed resilience when it mattered most. Trailing 5–4 at halftime, the Griffs responded with a composed and efficient second-half performance. Junior Maddie Fitzgerald sparked the turnaround early in the third quarter, netting her second goal of the game to ignite a 4–1 run that stretched into the fourth quarter and gave Canisius control.

Makenna Crouse with the ball (Photo by Katelynn Wiesniewski)

Senior Maggie Tifft, Fitzgerald and sophomore Makenna Crouse each scored twice, highlighting the balanced offensive approach that has become a defining trait for the Griffs. Tifft also added an assist to finish with a team-high of three points.

Possession once again played a critical role. Freshman Brooklyn Sverdrup controlled the draw with a game-high five wins, helping Canisius secure an 11–6 edge in the circle. On the defensive end, junior goalkeeper Olivia Licardi turned in one of her strongest performances of the season, making 12 saves to anchor the victory.

Even in the final moments, the Griffs were tested. After Sacred Heart cut the deficit to one in the closing minute, Canisius briefly regained possession before a late turnover gave the Pioneers one last opportunity. The potential game-tying shot sailed high, allowing the Griffs to escape with the win.

The performance reflected a larger trend for Canisius, which has consistently demonstrated the ability to adjust and respond. The Griffs have now secured multiple victories this season when trailing at halftime, a sign of a team growing more confident and composed in high-pressure situations.

That growth has been evident across the roster. Veterans like Tifft and Fitzgerald continue to provide steady production while players such as Crouse and Sverdrup have taken on expanded roles. The result has been a more complete and versatile team compared to earlier in the year.

Canisius has also excelled in controlling key statistical areas, particularly in draw controls, where it has bested opponents in the majority of its games this season. That ability to dictate possession has complemented an offense capable of spreading production and a defense that has delivered in critical moments.

With 10 wins already secured and conference play well underway, the Blue and Gold are positioning themselves as a strong contender in the MAAC. More importantly, they are doing so with a style built on balance, resilience and timely execution – traits that could prove pivotal as the season continues.

The team continues on the road against Mount St. Mary’s on Saturday, April 11 before returning home for senior day next week.