NAPERVILLE, Ill. – Cornell Women's Lacrosse went on the road to start the season, battling a tough North Central squad at Benedetti-Wehrli Field, losing a hard-fought match 17-10.
 
The Rams started off slowly, falling behind 5-0 before Cornell's career points leader Cece Zanoni scored at the 13:38 mark of the second quarter.
 
Brynn Miroslavich scored back-to-back goals midway through the second period to pull Cornell within two, at 6-4. After Miroslavich's second goal, North Central (1-0) went on a 9-1 run to take a 15-5 lead at the 4:34 mark of the third quarter.
 
Cornell (0-1) outscored the Cardinals 5-2 over the last 19 minutes of the game. The Rams picked up two goals from Zanoni and one each from Cheyenne Greenenwald, Natalie Hudgins and Miroslavich, during the late charge.
 
The Rams were led in scoring by Zanoni with six points (five goals and one assist) and Miroslavich with three goals. 
 
Also having strong performances for the Rams were Ilsa Jeffery with three ground balls and three caused turnovers. Hudgins with three ground balls, three draw controls and a goal. Ava Ferencz finished with six draw controls.
 
Coming up – The Rams play at home Saturday against UW-River Falls. Game starts at 3 p.m. at Van Metre Field at Ash Park.