WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – Looking to put the brakes on a three-game losing streak, the Salem lacrosse team will host USA South Conference foes William Peace (Saturday) and Piedmont (Sunday) this weekend at Varsity Field in Winston-Salem, N.C.
By the close of the weekend, Salem will have hosted four games at home this season, which was the site of their 16-15 overtime victory over Randolph on Feb. 22. The first game of the weekend will pit the Spirits against William Peace on Saturday, March 7 at 1 p.m. Less than 24 hours later, Salem will clash with Piedmont at 2 p.m.
Salem (1-3, 0-1 USA South) suffered its first setback of league action on Tuesday, March 3, at Greensboro. The Spirits were led by Sara Jimenez, who netted two goals on two shots on goal. Collette Vladimery also made an impact for the Spirits with four ground balls and a goal, while teammate Cara James added three ground balls and a goal.
Sophomore Teia Horton guides the Spirits offensively with nine points, by virtue of nine goals. Jimenez and Vladimery are second on the unit with five goals and five points, respectively.
Hannah Ostlund, who has logged 243 minutes in net for Salem, has made 40 saves (.374 save percentage). Ostlund is 1-3 in net.
William Peace (1-2, 0-1 USA South), who makes the short trek from Raleigh, N.C., to face Salem on Saturday, suffered a 19-13 setback in USA South action against Piedmont on Feb. 29. The Pacers, who have notched 42 goals over the first three games, are led offensively by Allison Schaper's 27 goals. Rylie Toomey is second on the WPU squad in goals (eight), but is tied with Anne Evans for the team lead in assists (four).
Alyssa Martinez anchors the William Peace defense with 23 saves (.307 save percentage), logging 180 minutes in net.
Piedmont (2-2, 1-0 USA South) makes its second trip to the Tar Heel state in as many weekends, squaring off against Meredith on Saturday, March 7 before heading to the Triad on Sunday. The Lions posted a 19-13 win over William Peace on Feb. 29 and earned a 12-11 victory over Oglethorpe (Feb. 19) during the opening month of the season.
Individually, Piedmont is led by the combination of Rowan Bumpass (14 goals), Domonique Steele (nine), Emma Fransen (eight) and Macey Higgins (eight). The Lions have tallied 49 goals over the course of the season.
Hunter Parrett (2-2) has faced 122 shots in net for Piedmont this season, converting 43 saves (.417 save percentage) en route to the two victories.
For more information on Salem lacrosse check out www.salemspirits.com.
