FARMINGDALE, N.Y. - The Purchase College women's lacrosse team was defeated in its return to action Friday evening, falling to the Rams of Farmingdale State College, 20-2.

Despite the loss, the game still marked a historic return to play for the squad, as they had gone 378 days since their last contest due to COVID-19.

Before traveling to Farmingdale this afternoon, the Panthers gathered in the parking lot outside the Physical Education building to board the bus. While they waited, you could feel the energy and excitement from the coaches and players alike about the opportunity to play again.

Even with all that energy and excitement though, the might of the Rams' offense and defense were just too strong on the night. 

After an early goal by Farmingdale put the hosts in front, Gabby Castles (SR/Bethpage, NY) continued her usual goal-scoring ways by finding the back of the net off a feed from Michelle Gomez (SO/Oceanside, NY) with 26:17 remaining in the opening half.

However, from that point on, the floodgates opened for the Rams (1-0). Farmingdale proceeded to score the next seven goals and 19 of the final 20 for the match.

The only other Panther goal of the night came from Castles via a free-position attempt midway through the first half. She finished the contest with two goals, two ground balls and two caused turnovers.

As for the rest of the squad, Maddy Mecca (SR/Oceanside, NY) added three ground balls, one caused turnover and a draw control. Madison Fetzer (SO/Happauge, NY) tallied three draw controls and Casandra Schmoger (SO/Islip, NY) did all she could in goal for Purchase, finishing with a career-high 15 saves.

As for the Rams, Julia Tuohy (SO/Port Jefferson Station, NY) powered the win with 10 points (4g, 6a). 

Up next for the women's lacrosse team is the team's home opener on March 25th against Mount Saint Mary College. That game is set to begin at 6 p.m. and you can follow along live with Live Stats and Live Video.