Glenside, PA – No. 16 Messiah College wrapped up an undefeated season in the Commonwealth Conference this afternoon with a 17-2 win over Arcadia University. The Falcons (12-4, 8-0) will now enter next week's Commonwealth Tournament as the No. 1 seed.
 
The Falcons will play on Thursday, Apr. 30 in the semifinals against the winner of No. 4 Arcadia and No. 5 Albright. No. 2 Stevenson will also host No. 3 Lebanon Valley in a semifinal game. (Final dates will be confirmed this evening by the Commonwealth Conference.)
 
This afternoon Messiah dominated the Knights from start to finish. Madi Brunk scored less than three minutes into the game and Messiah soon led 3-0 before the 25-minute mark of the first-half.
 
As the first-half drew to a close Stephanie Athens made a great spin off her defender to get close for a goal to put Messiah up 6-0. The Falcons tacked on two more tallies before the break.
 
After the intermission Marybeth Bindel continued the onslaught with a goal after just 56 seconds of play. Soon after, Athens put through back-to-back goals to give Messiah an 11-0 advantage.
 
Sam Sidoriak tallied with less than 20 minutes to play to end the shutout. Nevertheless, Messiah scored five-straight times to end the game and win 17-2.
 
The Falcons' strong play was highlighted by a dominating effort in draw controls and caused turnovers. Messiah took 18 of the game's 21 draw controls, and they caused 14 turnovers by the Knights. In total, Arcadia committed 20 turnovers while Messiah had just nine, a season low.
 
Bindel led the Falcons with four goals, and Claire Stikeleather, Brunk, and Athens each added three goals. Carly Bajus also registered a career-high five assists.
 
As mentioned, the Falcons will now look forward to hosting next week's Commonwealth Semifinal on Thursday, Apr. 30.
 
Fans are encouraged to follow GoMessiah.com for a complete preview of the women's lacrosse tournament.