February 25, 2006
Last-minute rally gives Belmont Abbey thrilling 16-15 victory over Methodist
McGonagle scores six goals as Monarchs fall to 0-2

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Defeat was snatched out of the jaws of victory on Saturday for the Methodist Monarch lacrosse team as visiting Belmont Abbey scored four late goals and came away with a 16-15 victory over Methodist at Monarch Stadium. The defeat, the second straight one-goal defeat for the Monarchs, drops Methodist to 0-2 on the season.

Methodist had a 15-12 lead when Lindsey West scored a goal with five minutes remaining in the game. However, Belmont Abbey started its rally with consecutive goals by Meghan Darley to cut the Methodist lead to 15-14. The Crusaders then tied the contest at 15-15 when Antionette Diamond scored with 1:28 remaining. Following the midfield face-off, Diamond gave Belmont Abbey the lead for good with a goal with 43 seconds remaining.

Methodist had one final chance to tie the game and send it into overtime, but West’s shot attempt as time expired was saved by Crusader goalkeeper Kate Gavin.

West finished the game with five goals for Methodist, including three in the first half as the Monarchs led 7-6 at halftime. Leading the Methodist attack, however, was Lauren McGonagle with six goals. Rachael Valentine, Annie Ferrara, Katelyn Cushman and Kali Rodriguez each added one goal.

For Belmont Abbey (2-2), Diamond and Darley both scored five goals for the Crusaders. Shannon Farden and Theresa Nolan each scored twice.

Methodist plays host to York on Wednesday at 3 p.m. at Monarch Stadium.