Firebirds Soar to 19-15 Victory Over Trinity as Mitchell, Martinez and Gunter Lead Offensive Charge

Washington, DC – The University of the District of Columbia women's lacrosse team put together a dominant offensive performance on Wednesday afternoon, taking down Trinity Washington University 19-15 at Tigers Field. The Firebirds' balanced attack was powered by standout performances from Michelle Mitchell, Gabriela Martinez, and Najee Gunter, who combined for 10 goals and 3 assists.

UDC wasted no time seizing control, outscoring Trinity 7-2 in the opening quarter. Michelle Mitchell led the early charge with two first-quarter goals, both off free-position shots, while Gabriela Martinez and Grace Hall added one apiece. Jada Williams and Aliyah Bailey each found the back of the net in a high-tempo first period that set the tone for the game.

The Firebirds added five more goals in the second quarter, including two from Williams and solo efforts from Hall, Gunter, and Martinez, who scored on a free-position shot. UDC entered halftime with a commanding 12-4 lead.

Trinity mounted a third-quarter rally, trimming the Firebirds' advantage to 15-10 behind a surge from Nan-Elizabeth Holt, who scored 11 goals on the day. However, UDC responded with key goals from Keliah Tucker, Martinez, and Mitchell to hold off the comeback bid.

Mitchell led all Firebirds with 4 goals, 5 draw controls, and 7 ground balls. Martinez added 3 goals on 9 shots, and Gunter contributed a hat trick with 2 assists, 13 ground balls, and 8 draw controls in a dominant two-way effort. Williams also notched 3 goals and an assist.

On defense, goalkeeper Natalia Perkins recorded 6 saves, playing all 60 minutes in net. UDC forced 19 turnovers and collected 47 ground balls.

UDC (1-7, 0-3 ECC) will host Mercy University on Saturday at 1:00pm.