VCU advanced to the Atlantic 10 Championship game for the first time in its program’s history after defeating St. Bonaventure 18-11 in Davidson, North Carolina, on May 1.
This marks a significant milestone for VCU, which began competing in women’s lacrosse in 2016 and reached the semifinals for the first time last season. The Rams improved their record to 13-4 with this victory, while St. Bonaventure fell to 11-8.
The game saw VCU take an early lead by scoring eight unanswered goals before halftime. Palmer opened the scoring with just over nine minutes left in the first quarter, setting the tone as VCU led 8-0 midway through the second quarter. Despite efforts from St. Bonaventure—who narrowed the gap to six at halftime—the Rams maintained control throughout and never led by fewer than six goals during the second half.
Key performances included a player tying her career-high with five goals on perfect shooting and another setting a career-best with four goals from five attempts. Additional contributions came from players who each scored twice and one who added two goals along with three assists—a game high. In goal, VCU’s goalkeeper made nine saves.
Statistically, both teams had an equal number of shots (26), but St. Bonaventure held a slight edge in shots on goal (17-13) and draw controls (21-10). However, VCU was more efficient on free position attempts (6-of-8) and committed only five turnovers compared to twelve by their opponent. Brooke Piper led St. Bonaventure with four goals.
Looking ahead, VCU will face No. 4 seed Davidson—the host of this year’s championship—on Sunday, May 3 at noon. The title match will be streamed live on ESPN+.
