by Alan Babbitt

The on-target trio of attackers Rachel Elder, Sophie Ackerman, and Elena Salazar fueled a game-deciding second half for the Hope College women's lacrosse team against Trine University.

A swarming defense helped the Flying Dutch win their MIAA Tournament opener, too.

Third-seeded Hope defeated sixth-seeded Trine, 20-12, on Saturday at Van Andel Soccer Stadium. The Flying Dutch advanced to the MIAA semifinals and will play second-seeded Calvin University on Wednesday, April 28 at a time to be determined. 

The Hope-Calvin winner moves to the championship game on Saturday, May 1. Hope and Calvin split their regular-season meetings, with each winning on its own turf.

Ackerman, Elder, pictured right, and Salazar combined for 10 of the Flying Dutch's 11 second-half goals. Hope limited Trine to five goals after halftime.

"We really found the open teammate and hit quick goals," head coach Keagan Pontious said. "Rachel, Sophie, and Elena all were hot, wanting to fill the cage. That helped us on attack.

"On defense, we had solid 1v.1 play. We didn't let Trine pass lightly. It was a great team effort. Everybody did what they were supposed to do."

On the first possession of the second half. Hope won the draw control and set up Elder for a goal 38 seconds into the half that extended the lead to 10-7. The lead never dipped below three goals for the remainder of the game.

Elder (Grand Rapids, Michigan/East Grand Rapids) recorded four of her six goals at halftime.

Salazar (Howell, Michigan/Hartland), pictured left, scored twice after halftime and shared game-high honors with six goals.

Ackerman (East Grand Rapids, Michigan/East Grand Rapids) netted three of her four goals during the second half.

Midfielder Paige Wilmer (Columbus, Ohio/Upper Arlington) scooped up a game-high nine ground balls while also collecting two goals and two assists.

Midfielder Carly Pieri (Alto, Michigan/Caledonia) also had two goals.