Two minutes into the first half of the women’s lacrosse match between Kent State and Robert Morris on Saturday, the Colonials were quick to attack.

In the second minute of the game, the Colonials struck first on a goal by midfielder Kelsey Nelson. A few minutes later, Robert Morris struck again on a goal from Hannah Miller.

“I think we had sparks of really good play and sparks that we’ve seen at practice and as a coaching staff we expect,” Kent State coach Brianne Tierney said. “I think we’re still trying to find that group that clicks.”

After gaining a 3-0 lead by the 13th minute, the Colonials’ offense didn’t hold back. Midfielder Emilie Kim helped cushion Robert Morris’ lead with a goal at the 15-minute mark with an assist from Kelley Flynn.

The Flashes’ first goal of the game came from a shot by freshman Luna Katz. Katz bobbled the ball, but regained control for her third goal of the season.

Going into the second half with a 5-1 deficit, the Flashes’ offense became unstoppable. The first goal of the half came from freshman Abby Jones, who scooped up the ball on the Colonials’ side of the field to score, her fourth goal of the season. Despite the offensive surge in the second half, Kent State couldn’t hold off the Colonials and fell, 11-6.

The Flashes scored four goals in 11 minutes in the second half. Jones, Katz and Kozar all helped contribute to the offensive outbreak. Jones led the team with three goals, and Katz scored two. Kozar and Kelly Bailey finished with one assist each.

“I think they started to build some confidence, and our go-to kids right now are Abby Jones and Luna, (who) can score goals kind of at will,” Tierney said.“But we need to work a little bit better to get into those places and make the defense get tired where we’re going to go.”

Despite the offensive comeback, the Flashes’ defense struggled to hold off the Colonials’ offense. Robert Morris extended its lead with six additional goals in the half.

With five minutes left, Graceyn Dean scored her first goal of the game and was assisted by Jones.

Freshman goalie Grace Merrill had 18 saves on the day on 29 shots on goal.

The Flashes’ next game will be Friday at Butler University at 3 p.m. 

Amanda Levine is a sports reporter. Contact her [email protected].