Photo by samsphotoservices.com

By Jack Brancheau

LOS ANGELES — In Thursday evening's non-conference showdown against the #8 Franklin & Marshall Diplomats, the Tigers fell 17-8 despite strong performances from Alessandra Pelliccia and Ciara Byrne.

The Tigers looked great in spots but the Diplomats had overwhelming control of the ball, including out-shooting Oxy by 16 and winning 65% of draws. 

Senior midfielder, Ciara Byrne, netted three goals on the day — the first of which marked the 100th of her career. Alessandra Pelliccia had another solid game, recording three goals, an assist, and four draw controls. Sierra Slack and Lauren DiLella each added a goal and Marie Whitmore had a game-high four ground balls for the Tigers.

Neah Bois played great in goal once again — saving seven shots, scooping up two ground balls, and causing one defensive turnover. Annie Stevens was great on defense, picking up three ground balls and forcing a defensive turnover.

Season Impact: After consecutive losses to the #25 and #8 teams in the country, the Tigers drop to 5-3 on the season. They return to play next Tuesday (3/20) at 7:00 PM to face the Allegheny Gators at Jack Kemp Stadium.