ALFRED, NY – Senior midfielder Miranda Gilbert (Watertown, NY/Watertown) netted a season-high four goals as the Alfred University women's lacrosse team fell to Elmira College in the their conference-opening game, 19-6.
 
The Saxons (0-4, 0-1 Empire 8) also got goals from senior attack Jacquelynn Hicks (Greenville, NY/Greenville) and sophomore defender Allison Hanvey (Camden, NY/Camden). Both goals were colligate firsts for the players.
 
The defense led by senior goalkeeper Shannon Gray (Rochester, NY/Churchville-Chili) as she had a team-high eight ground balls. Gilbert added four ground balls while first-year defender LeeAnna Bianchi (Hilton, NY/Hilton) chipped in with three ground balls. Hanvey led the way in caused turnovers with three while Gilbert had two.
 
"Today was a day of firsts," said Head Coach Erin McGaffigan. "Both Jackie and Allie scored their first collegiate goals. This was a good day for Saxons lacrosse as players are starting to peak and really play for one another. This was a great building block in our first conference game of the season."
 
Hicks won five draw controls in the circle for Alfred.
 
Gray went the distance between the pipes, making 14 saves.
 
The Saxons next play this Monday, March 26, as they face visiting Medaille College at 6 PM.