NORTHAMPTON, Mass.--A critical portion of the schedule begins today for the Smith College lacrosse team (6-4, 1-1 NEWMAC) when they host five time defending conference tournament champion Babson College (6-2, 1-0 NEWMAC).  The next four games will determine whether Smith makes its first conference tournament appearance since 2007.

Last Meeting: Meaghan Fileti (Palos Verdes Estates, Calif./Palos Verdes) scored both goals as the Pioneers fell on the road, 17-2, on April 9, 2011. 

Last Smith Win:  The Pioneers scored a 10-9 win over the Beavers on April 9, 2000.

Smith Overview:  Smith bounced back from a 24-8 loss to Wheaton with a 16-9 win over New England College on Monday afternoon.  The Pioneers found themselves down 5-2 early in the game, but reeled off 10 consecutive goals to take a lead they would never relinquish.

Babson Overview: After starting the season with losses in two of their first three games, Babson has now won five in a row, including a 17-7 win over Western New England on April 5.  As mentioned, the Beavers have won the last five tournament championships, and four of the last five regular season titles.

Smith Player to Watch: Mackenzie Bradley (Sherwood, Ore./Sherwood) led a strong defensive effort against the Pilgrims, causing three turnovers and scooping up four ground balls. 

Babson Player to Watch: Goalie Julie Baharestani has a goals against average of 9.75, second best in the NEWMAC.

Did you know? Smith begins a stretch of schedule that will see the Pioneers play four straight league games - after Babson, Smith will play Mount Holyoke and Wellesley on the road, before wrapping up league play with a visit from Springfield.