The Cornell Big Red women’s lacrosse team fell to the Penn Quakers, 8-7, in overtime on Saturday afternoon at Schoellkopf Field, dropping a tightly contested Ivy League matchup after a late comeback forced extra time. With the loss, Cornell remains in the hunt for an Ivy League Tournament berth heading into the final game of the regular season.
Cornell showed resilience after a slow start, responding to Penn’s three-goal opening run with five consecutive scores to take a 5-3 lead after the first quarter. Lilly Whaling sparked the surge with a career-best three goals, while Ellie Bergin added two, including the game-tying goal late in regulation. Despite being held scoreless in the second and third quarters, the Big Red stayed within reach thanks to strong defensive play and control in key areas.
Trailing 7-5 entering the fourth quarter, Cornell continued to press and found a breakthrough when Bergin scored with just over two minutes remaining to tie the game and send it to overtime. However, Penn won the opening draw in the extra period and capitalized immediately, ending the game on its first possession.
Cornell held a significant edge in several statistical categories, outshooting Penn 28-15 and winning the ground ball battle 25-13. The Big Red also forced 20 turnovers and converted efficiently on clears, but could not turn those advantages into a victory. Defensively, Caitlin Tully led the way with three caused turnovers, while multiple players contributed across the field.
Cornell will close out the regular season on Saturday, April 25 at 12 p.m. when it hosts Yale at Schoellkopf Field, with postseason implications on the line.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].