Chippewa lacrosse claims home opener
Led by Courtney Burke's four goals, Central Michigan University’s women’s lacrosse team won itshome opener against Butler University 16-11.
“It was always one of those things that as my career goes on, you know, getting the first win is always a great feeling, happy for our kids and they’ve been working hard towards it,” said head coach Sarah Tisdale.
After being outscored in the first half of their past two games 29-4, CMU got off to a great start outscoring Butler 8-4 in the first half. The Chippewas scored their first three goals in less than three minutes.
CMU was able to limit the turnovers and create turnovers of its own. The Chippewas, for the first time this season, had more shots on goal in the first half then their opponent. Putting 10 shots on goal to Butlers 7.
“So definitely thinking back on those two games and what we learned we wanted to make sure that we came out, ready to score,” Tisdale said.
In the first half CMU was led by junior Audrey Whiteside who scored the first goal for the Chippewas. Whiteside would add two assists as well.
CMU also got help from freshmen Reagan Martinsen and Skye Deprado, who both scored two goals in the first half.
The Chippewas did not take their foot off the gas, continuing to dominate in the second half.
Senior Courtney Burke took over the game in the second half scoring 4 goals. Burke scored her last three goals within a five-minute span. Burke’s last three goals were the dagger, as CMU went up 15-11 with only three minutes left. Burke is now tied for the most goals on the team with Maggie Diebold.
“Courtney is a great leader, obviously as a senior that's exactly what we expect her to do. And so we're just continuing to look for her to not only put up those points but also lead vocally and help our chemistry develop,” Tisdale said.
CMU saw Martinsen add another goal for her hat-trick in the third quarter. In the win the Chippewas got goals from nine different players, which is a season best.
CMU has a busy upcoming week, playing three games in five days. On March 2, the Chippewas are on the road to take on Detroit Mercy University.
