ST. LOUIS – Missouri Baptist University women's lacrosse continued conference play dominantly Thursday afternoon, defeating the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy 16-4 at Spartan Field.
Before the opening draw, Missouri Baptist dedicated the game to the life and legacy of Morgan Rodgers, a former Duke student-athlete. Rodgers tragically passed away in 2019 after battling mental health challenges, and her story continues to inspire change through Morgan's Message. It is an organization founded by her family and teammates. The initiative works to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health, encourage open conversations, and ensure mental health is treated equally to physical health for student-athletes. The Spartans honored Rodgers with a moment of silence before the game.
Missouri Baptist (6-4, 1-0) wasted no time setting the tone, erupting for seven first-quarter goals and holding UHSP scoreless in the opening frame. The Spartans extended their lead to 10-1 by halftime and never looked back, outshooting UHSP 37-14 and controlling possession throughout.
Delaney Pechnik led the offensive charge with four goals and two assists, while Sophia Rose delivered a standout performance with three goals and four assists. Madison Terrell added three goals, and Skyler Morrissey chipped in two goals to round out a balanced Spartan attack.
Missouri Baptist's defense held UHSP (2-5, 1-1) in check, limiting quality opportunities and forcing 27 turnovers. Rachel Livak earned the win in goal, recording six saves across 60 minutes.
After a quieter third quarter, the Spartans closed strong with five goals in the fourth, highlighted by scores from Terrell, Morrissey, Hayley Schnefke, and Grace Gumper.
Missouri Baptist will look to carry the momentum into its next Heart of America Athletic Conference matchup as the Spartans continue conference play this weekend against #1 Benedictine College. Faceoff is set for 2 p.m.
Stat Leaders
Goals: Delaney Pechnik (4)
Assists: Sophia Rose (4)
Points: Sophia Rose (7)
Shots: Delaney Pechnik (8)
Ground balls: Hayley Schnefke (2)
Saves: Rachel Livak (6)
