NORTHAMPTON, MA. - The Smith College lacrosse team fell to Springfield 18-5 in a NEWMAC showdown on Wednesday evening at Smith Turf Field. The Pioneers started strong but couldn't keep pace with the Pride's high-powered offense. 

Game Highlights

• Kyra Hawk (San Jose, CA/The Harker School) continued to lead the Smith attack, netting three goals, including one in the fourth quarter. Hawk now pushes her season total to 30 goals. 

• Caroline Sanders (Orange County, CA/Santa Margarita Catholic) provided a spark in transition, contributing two goals and an assist while also battling for ground balls and draw controls.

• Brooke Testa (Pittstown, NJ/Delaware Valley) stood tall in goal, recording a season-high 21 saves to keep Smith in the game despite Springfield's offensive pressure.

• Jordan Hoffman (Portland, OR/Jesuit) and Caroline Sanders (Orange County, CA/Santa Margarita Catholic) was a force on the draw, securing three draw controls and helping to create second-chance opportunities.

• Smith forced seven Springfield turnovers and capitalized on defensive stops to generate transition offense.

How It Happened

Smith struck early as Hawk buried her first goal at the 10:32 mark of the first quarter, responding quickly to Springfield's opening score. Sanders followed with a well-placed shot at 3:34, keeping the Pioneers within striking distance. The defense held strong for much of the quarter, but Springfield managed to add two late goals to take a 4-2 lead into the second.

The second quarter was a tough one for Smith, as Springfield controlled possession and went on a five-goal run. The Pioneers fought to slow down the attack, with Testa making six crucial saves, but turnovers and fouls limited offensive opportunities. By halftime, Springfield led 9-2.

Coming out of the break, Smith responded with renewed intensity. Sanders struck first just 56 seconds into the third quarter to cut into the deficit, but Springfield countered with two quick goals. Hawk answered at the 9:03 mark, finding the net for the second time, but despite Smith's improved ball movement and defensive adjustments, the Pride's efficiency allowed them to extend their lead to 14-4 heading into the final frame.

In the fourth quarter, Smith continued to battle. Hawk completed her hat trick with 2:30 remaining off a great assist from Sanders. The Pioneers kept up their defensive pressure, forcing multiple turnovers and preventing Springfield from extending its lead for much of the quarter. However, the Pride managed a final goal in the closing minute to secure the 18-5 result.

Up Next

The Pioneers (5-6, 1-3 NEWMAC) return to action on Saturday when they travel to Coast Guard at 12 pm.

About Smith Athletics: Smith College is a NCAA Division III member of the New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference that sponsors 11 intercollegiate sports. For more information log on to smithpioneers.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.