WASHINGTON (April 11, 2026) – Howard University lacrosse (3-11, 2-5 NEC) mounted a strong fourth-quarter rally, but a decisive third period proved too much to overcome in a 12-7 loss to Mercyhurst (2-10, 2-5 NEC) Saturday afternoon at Greene Stadium.
 
Howard was paced, offensively, by reigning NEC Rookie of the Week Sophia Lima (Altadena, Calif.), who recorded a team-high three goals, while sophomore Leah Croom (Falmouth, Mass.) and graduate student Sawyer Walker (Rehoboth Beach, Del.) each added two scores.
 
The Bison struck first when Croom found the back of the net at the 13:22 mark of the opening quarter. Mercyhurst responded later in the period to even the score, 1-1, heading into the second.
 
In the second quarter, Mercyhurst began to build momentum with a 5-2 advantage in the frame. Goals from Walker and Lima, including a man-up score assisted by senior Tea Vasquez (Oakland, Calif.), kept Howard within reach, trailing, 6-3, at halftime.
 
The third quarter proved to be the difference as Mercyhurst outscored the Bison, 5-0. Despite multiple defensive efforts and saves from freshman goalkeeper London James-Golas (Annapolis, Md.), Howard was unable to slow the Lakers' offensive surge, falling behind, 11-3, entering the final period.
 
Howard showed resilience in the fourth quarter, scoring four-of-the-first five goals to cut into the deficit. Lima netted two more goals in the period while Walker converted a free-position opportunity and Croom added her second score of the game. The rally; however, came too late as Mercyhurst sealed the 12-7 victory with a late goal.
 
Defensively, reigning NEC Defensive Player of the Week Cecilia Vitti (Detroit) led the Bison with four ground balls and three caused turnovers while Walker controlled a game-high seven draws.
 
As a team, Howard held an edge in draw controls (13-8) and clears (14-of-15).
 
Mercyhurst was led by Emma Cimino and Whitley Easton, who each scored four goals, with Easton adding two assists.
 
Howard returns to action Saturday, April 18, hosting Wagner in a NEC matchup at Greene Stadium. Opening draw is set for noon.
 
For more information on Howard University women's lacrosse, visit www.hubison.com.