Northwestern Coasts to Victory in Home Opener Against Marquette

EVANSTON, Ill. – Lauren Gilbert scored six first half goals as Northwestern never trailed in its home opener, defeating Marquette 24-13 inside Ryan Fieldhouse on Monday evening.
 
With the Wildcats (1-1) ahead 14-6 at the third quarter's 11:20 mark, Leah Holmes scored the first of her career-high five goals, and helped NU end the quarter scoring five unanswered goals to take a 20-10 lead. A two-time Big Ten Freshman of the Week last year, Holmes finished the game setting career marks in goals and assists (4).
 
Northwestern tallied 38 shots, placing 31 on target. Gilbert recorded all of her game-high six goals in the first half and totaled a game-high 11 shots. Erin Coykendall scored a career-best five goals to go along with three helpers. Eve Hritzuk, Carleigh Mahoney and Brennan Dwyer each scored two goals.
 
Hannah Greving scored three goals and Mary Schumar totaled four assists, leading a Marquette offense (1-1) that posted 27 shots with 19 on goal.
 
Madison Doucette logged six saves in goal for NU. The Eagles Amanda Rumsey registered five saves and allowed 20 goals.
 
Northwestern held a 12-7 edge at halftime, utilizing an 8-3 advantage in the first period to its benefit.
 
The Wildcats return to action at noon on Sunday, Feb. 20, against Arizona State inside Ryan Fieldhouse.