Williams’ Five-Goal Effort Leads Firebirds in Conference Matchup at St. Thomas Aquinas

SPARKILL, N.Y. – The University of the District of Columbia women's lacrosse team fell 18-11 to St. Thomas Aquinas in conference action on Saturday afternoon.

Despite the final score, the Firebirds showed resilience throughout the contest, including a strong offensive push in the fourth quarter where they netted five goals.

Jada Williams led the Firebirds offensively with a five-goal, two-assist performance, accounting for seven of UDC's 11 goals. Najee Gunter added a hat trick with three goals, while also contributing on the defensive end with four ground balls

Aliyah Bailey chipped in with a goal and an assist, while Keliah Tucker and Grace Hall each added a goal to round out the Firebirds' scoring efforts.

UDC stayed within striking distance early, trailing 5-2 after the first quarter and 9-5 at halftime. The Firebirds continued to battle, highlighted by multiple scoring runs and a late surge in the fourth quarter, but St. Thomas Aquinas pulled away with a strong third quarter to secure the win.

Defensively, UDC collected 32 ground balls, with Williams leading the way with eight, while goalkeeper Natalia Perkins recorded eight saves in net. 

The Firebirds return home next Wednesday for their final home matchup of the season, hosting Trinity University for Senior Day. Opening draw is set for 3 p.m.