Columbia
3-1
Marist
1-5
Lacrosse Rallies Past Marist, 12-9
2/28/2026 9:45:00 PM | Lacrosse
Zhai scores four as Lions erase early four-goal deficit on the road
POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. – The Columbia lacrosse team stormed back from an early four-goal deficit to defeat Marist, 12-9, on Saturday evening in Poughkeepsie.
With the win, Columbia improves to 3-1 on the season, while Marist falls to 1-5.
The Red Foxes struck first and controlled the opening quarter, scoring the game's first four goals to seize early momentum. Columbia responded late in the frame when Cecelia Messner found the back of the net to put the Lions on the board, a goal that shifted the energy and ignited a decisive run.
Messner's late first-quarter tally sparked what would become a 5-0 surge to close the half. Columbia held Marist scoreless throughout the second quarter while stringing together four unanswered goals of its own, turning a four-goal deficit into a 5-4 lead at the break. The Lions tightened defensively and began to control possession during the stretch, limiting Marist's opportunities and capitalizing on efficient offensive sets.
The Red Foxes responded in the third quarter to keep the contest tight, but Columbia maintained its composure in a back-and-forth frame to carry a 9-8 advantage into the fourth.
In the final period, the Lions created separation. Michelle Zhai netted two fourth-quarter goals, helping Columbia outscore Marist 3-1 over the final 15 minutes to secure the 12-9 victory.
Zhai led all scorers with four goals. Messner totaled three points with two goals and one assist, while Maddie Brogan and Lilah Kirch each added two goals. Emma Row recorded a career-high three points with one goal and career best two assists, and Anna Becker contributed a goal and an assist.
Defensively, goalkeeper Ava Kimche delivered her strongest performance of the season, playing all 60 minutes and recording seven saves while making several key stops during Marist scoring runs. Cordelia Flemming was a wizard in the draw circle, collecting a game-high and career-high eight draw controls to help Columbia hold a 16-7 edge in the category. The Lions also finished a perfect 12-for-12 on clears, key factors in fueling the comeback effort.
Columbia returns to action Wednesday at Kraft Field against Howard in a makeup of last week's postponed contest. First draw is set for 4 p.m.
For the latest on Columbia lacrosse, follow @CULionsLax on Twitter and Instagram, and on the web at GoColumbiaLions.com.
