NORTH ANDOVER, Mass. — Niagara women's lacrosse improved to 3-7 overall and 1-0 in conference play with a 12-9 victory over Merrimack on Saturday at Duane Stadium.
 
How it Happened
After trailing 7-6 at halftime, the Purple Eagles dominated the third quarter with four unanswered goals to take control of the game. Niagara's defense shut out Merrimack (1-8, 0-2) in the pivotal third period.
 
Maddy Gill, Michaela Delles, Olivia Ng and Giordan Peck each recorded hat tricks to lead the balanced Niagara attack. Hannah Kent contributed two assists, while Abberly Dela Rosa and Jaclyn Crane added one helper each.
 
Niagara goalkeeper Haley Terry finished with nine saves to earn the win.
 
The Purple Eagles trailed 4-3 after the first quarter and 7-6 at halftime before their decisive 4-0 run in the third quarter. Gill scored three of her goals in the second half, including two in the critical third-quarter surge.
 
Niagara Notes
• Niagara improves to 2-0 all-time against Merrimack.
• Saturday marked the first ever MAAC meeting between Niagara and Merrimack.
• Niagara has won six-straight league games dating back to April 6, 2024.
• The Purple and White matched its season-high with 12 goals.
• Gill notched three goals and now has a team-best 27 on the season.
• Ng and Peck each reach 10 goals on the season with three Saturday afternoon.
 
Up Next
Niagara will host Battle of the Bridge rival Canisius on Saturday, March 29 at 1 p.m. from Niagara Field.