Casey Akenberger Director of Athletic Performance/Munn | Michigan State Spartan Athletics Website
Casey Akenberger Director of Athletic Performance/Munn | Michigan State Spartan Athletics Website
Michigan State University (MSU) began its 2024 season with a narrow 4-3 victory over UC Davis on Friday afternoon in California.
Bianca Pizano scored twice for MSU, while seniors Maddie Lawlor and Jillian Bonczewski also contributed goals to secure the win. MSU led 2-0 at halftime with goals from Lawlor and Pizano in the first quarter. Pizano added her second goal early in the second half. UC Davis responded with goals from Lisolette Koop and Ella Franklin, narrowing the gap to 3-1 by the end of the third quarter.
The final quarter saw heightened activity from both teams. Koop scored again with just over seven minutes remaining, bringing UC Davis within one goal at 3-2. Bonczewski then netted what would be the game-winning goal for MSU less than two minutes later, extending their lead to 4-2. Despite another goal from UC Davis' Zoe Mohrman, set up by Koop, with 3:27 left on the clock, MSU's defense held firm.
Koop finished with two goals and an assist for UC Davis. Starting goalie Emma Giesting made three saves in the first half before being replaced by Sarah Lopez for the second half.
MSU will continue its California road trip with a game against Cal on Sunday afternoon at 4 pm ET.
Alerts Sign-up