Render and Murrell tally hat tricks in first conference win of season

BLACKSBURG, Va. - The Hokies emerged victorious over the Louisville Cardinals, their first ACC opponent of the season.

Sophomore attacker Sophia Trahan put Tech on the board 44 seconds play. Lauren Render followed three minutes later with a free-position goal. Render and Trahan each added another goal before the end of the first quarter, giving the Hokies a 5-1 lead. 

Sarah Murrell pushed the Hokies’ lead to six with her first goal of the afternoon just over a minute into the second quarter. Near the end of the half, Render dished in her third goal off of an assist from Trahan, for her first hat trick of the season. Hokies led 8-3 at the break. 

Louisville responded with a 5-2 run throughout the third quarter to close the gap at 10-8. Reese Wallich halted the opposing surge with her second goal in the final 27 seconds of the period.

The Cardinals continued to apply pressure in the final quarter, but Murrell capitalized with back-to-back goals within a minute of each other. Maggie Flanagan and Render added late goals to secure the 16-11 win. Render finished with a game and season-high five goals.

UP NEXT

Virginia Tech lacrosse returns to Blacksburg on Tuesday, February 17, against in-state opponent VCU. First draw is set for 1 p.m.