EASTON, Pa. - Holy Cross used a 10-goal second half to defeat Lafayette, 18-7, in the 2026 Patriot League opener on Saturday afternoon at Fisher Stadium.

Three Leopards recorded a team-high two points apiece: Sadie Martiesian, Georgia Swarr and Olivia Hover. Holy Cross was fueled by Kate Avitabile's seven points on one goal and six assists. Hadley Cepiel recorded a team-high four goals.

In the first quarter, each team knocked down three goals for a tie into the short break.

The Crusaders outscored the hosts 5-3 before halftime to take an 8-6 advantage.

Holy Cross posted a 6-0 run using six different scorers through the third period to keep out of reach, 14-6.

The opponents continued the scoring streak with four unanswered tallies to kick off the final quarter, reaching an 18-6 lead by 4:23. Lafayette's Martiesian was credited with the final goal of the game with 13 seconds on the clock in the decision.

The Crusaders held the advantage in draw controls (20-7), ground balls (29-28) and shots (33-30). The Leopards secured all 13 clear attempts compared to Holy Cross with 8-of-14.

Lafayette's senior goalkeeper Kennedy Carr made nine saves. Her Crusader counterparts, Mackenzie Creagh and Sara Knice, made 11 and one, respectively.

Next up, the Leopards face George Washington on Wednesday in a neutral site game played in Sparks Glencoe, Md. The 1 p.m. opening draw will take place at the USA Lacrosse facility.

 
For the latest on the Lafayette College women's lacrosse program, follow the Leopards on Instagram @lafayette_wlax and Twitter @LafayetteWLAX.