By Mario Ponce
EUGENE, Ore - The Oregon Ducks women’s lacrosse team (2-0) will host the Marist Red Foxes (0-2) today in their third game of the season. The Ducks have historically struggled, but they have turned around under new head coach Jessica Drummond.
Oregon Ducks:
The Ducks are undefeated in two games, scoring 19 goals in their opener against the Youngstown State Penguins, and 17 against the St Francis Red Flash in their second game. The 36 goals and 15 assists have given Oregon a great offensive display, and the Ducks have momentum in the last of the three home games at the start of the season. Sophomore midfielder is the offensive leader of the team right now, with nine goals and three assists, and the team will look for her to continue to lead the way.
Marist Red Foxes:
The Red Foxes have lost both of their games so far, being outscored by 22 goals by the New Hampshire Wildcats and Binghamton Bearcats. Their trip to Eugene pits them against their first Power-Five opponent, and a game that looked more winnable at the beginning of the year now looks more difficult because the Ducks have momentum. Their offensive leader is attacker Terri Gutenberger with five goals.
Prediction:
This is a great opportunity for the Ducks. Last season they won two and lost one of their opening three, but slid to a 5-12 final record, but they are in good spirits going into their matchup today. Marist has struggled defensively, and they look to cut the momentum of their hosts. I predict a 12-7 win for the Ducks.