Tampa Dominates Second Quarter to Secure 17–10 Home Victory Over Maryville
TAMPA, Fla. – University of Tampa women's lacrosse delivered a strong offensive performance at home, defeating Maryville (Mo.) 17–10. With the victory, the Spartans continue to build momentum, controlling the game from start to finish behind a balanced attack and dominant draw control play.
How It Happened
Tampa opened the contest with early energy, trading goals with Maryville in the first quarter before edging ahead 4–3 at the end of the frame. Peyton Howell and Mary Kate Person helped set the tone offensively, while Josie Bullock and Jenna Myhal each found the back of the net to give the Spartans an early edge.
The Spartans broke the game open in the second quarter with a dominant 7–1 run. Howell and Person led the charge, combining for multiple goals during the stretch, while Bullock facilitated the offense with key assists. Kaylee VanVladricken added a pair of goals during the run, and Tampa continued to capitalize on draw control wins from Isabella Avila and Kierstyn Zinter to maintain possession. The defensive unit also stepped up, with Alexis Abe causing turnovers and Katie DeShan collecting ground balls to spark transition opportunities. Tampa entered halftime with a commanding 11–4 advantage.
Coming out of the break, the Spartans continued to dictate tempo. Person opened the second half scoring before Howell added to her total, while Myhal and VanVladRicken each contributed goals to extend the lead. Tampa added four goals in the third quarter while holding Maryville to just one, pushing the margin to 15–5 heading into the final period.
Maryville showed resilience in the fourth quarter, outscoring Tampa 5–2, but the deficit proved too large to overcome. The Spartans managed the clock effectively down the stretch, with contributions from multiple players helping maintain possession and control. Strong defensive play and steady goalkeeping from Savvy Barbosa secured the 17–10 home victory.
Spartan Performances
- Howell led the offense with five goals and one assist, pacing the Spartans throughout the game.
- Person matched with five goals and added two assists, playing a key role in Tampa's second-quarter surge.
- Bullock recorded two goals and two assists, contributing to both settled offense and transition.
- Myhal and VanVladRicken each added two goals to round out Tampa's balanced scoring attack.
- In the draw circle, Avila led with six draw controls while Zinter added five, helping Tampa secure a 20–9 advantage.
- Defensively, Abe recorded three caused turnovers, while DeShan added two ground balls in a strong effort.
- In goal, Barbosa played all 60 minutes and made 11 saves to anchor the Spartans and reached 200 career saves.
Up Next
The Spartans will look to carry their momentum forward as they prepare for their next matchup against Lynn.
