WHITTIER, Calif. (Feb. 18, 2023) - The Whittier College women's lacrosse team opened regular season play in impressive fashion, defeating Eastern Oregon, 28–0.

The Poets started fast, with senior attacker Kiedra Hall scoring the first goal of the year for the Poets, assisted by senior midfielder Loren Jade Sepulveda. The scoring would not stop there, as the Poets scored a goal for each of the next eight minutes. After a goal from senior attacker Molly Landon, the Poets were up 9–0 on the Mountaineers with 7:14 left in the first quarter.

The second quarter did not prove any less productive for the Poets. After a 13–0 first quarter for the Poets, they would add six more goals to the first-half total. By halftime, the Poets increased their lead to 19–0.

Even with a goalie change to start the second half for the Mountaineers, the goals kept coming for Whittier. The Poets found success in all aspects of the game. In all statistical categories, the Poets dominated the Mountaineers throughout the contest. In fact, Eastern Oregon did not get a shot off the entire match.

Eleven Poets scored in the game, and were led by Molly Landon, who recorded five goals. In the assist category, three Poets earned three assists on the day: senior attacker Georgia Bachiochi, senior attacker Samantha Nimmo and Sepulveda. Nimmo also scored four goals.

While the offense was on fire all game, the defense kept the Mountaineers off the board. Twelve turnovers were forced by the Poets defense, which helped keep the Mountaineers out of rhythm the entire contest. Head coach Sara Dougherty was pleased with the performance.

"We played well overall, and we were able to move a lot of girls around to try different spots," Dougherty said. "I'm really looking forward to improving a few things this week at practice but excited for this season"

The Poets look to continue the strong start as they begin conference play on the road against Cal Lutheran Regals on Wednesday, Feb. 22 at 7 p.m.

Photo: Tony Leon/ActionWestPhotography.com

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