WEST PALM BEACH, FLA. 3/16/09 - The Keene State College women's lacrosse defeated Alleghany College of Pennsylvania 13-10 for its first win of the season. The game, played Monday morning, is part of the women's lacrosse "Spring Fling" taking place in West Palm Beach, Fla.

The win gave Katie Arsenault her first coaching victory at KSC.

Sophomore Jill Kirk (Port Jefferson Station, N.Y.) netted four goals and sophomore Lauren Sawyer (Westbrook, Me.) dished out four assists to lead the Owls (1-2).

Keene State jumped out to an early 6-3 lead behind some excellent scoring plays engineered by Sawyer. After Allegheny stormed back to a tie the game   (6-6) at halftime, Keene State scored four consecutive goals to begin the second half to secure the win. Despite being outshot by the Gators, Keene State executed successfully on 19 of 22 clear attempts to maintain possession of the ball.     

Jamie Albert (Southington, Conn.) and freshman Sarah Valacer (Townsend, Mass., who moved from defense up to the center spot, each had two goals.  Allegheny's Jensen Paterson scored three times for the Gators (1-2).

"I thought our transition game was much better and we didn't give up as many shots in front to the net," said Arsenaut.  "It's nice to get the first win.  If we go out and play hard we have a chance to win."

Senior goalie Jen Gearing (Westfield, Mass.) along with Alleghany keeper Rachael Coons finished the game with 16 saves each.

The Owls continue play at "SpringFling" on Wednesday when they play SUNY - Fredonia.