Riverdale, N.Y. - The Long Island University women's lacrosse team dropped its 2009 season-opener, 19-4, against Manhattan on Sunday afternoon at Gaelic Park. Four different Blackbirds scored, while freshman Claire Ranney (Jarretsville, Md.) added a team-high four ground balls.

The Blackbirds fell behind early, as Manhattan (3-1) scored the first three goals. Senior Allison Funk (Lumberton, N.J.) got LIU on the board with a free position shot at the 20:37 mark. After a run of four consecutive goals by the Jaspers, Ranney notched her first career goal on an unassisted effort. After another Manhattan goal, sophomore Annie Kalata (Nesconset, N.Y.) scored with three seconds left in the half to trim the deficit to 8-3 at the break.

Freshman Ashley Prizio (Brookfield, Conn.) scored LIU's second half goal off a pass from junior Christie Wienckowski (Newton Square, Pa.) with 5:37 to play.

Freshmen Jacqueline Simonian (Farmingdale, N.Y.) and Amber Meek (Woodbridge, Va.) split time in goal for the Blackbirds. Simonian made a pair of saves, while Meek turned away five shots. LIU had a 13-10 advantage in draw controls and forced 17 turnovers.

Carlyn Hickey led Manhattan with five goals, while Chrissy Gutenberger scored four goals with two assists.

LIU is back in action on Tuesday, March 10, when it hosts Drexel at 4:00 p.m. at LIU Field.

2009-03-08