by Alan Babbitt

The fourth quarter proved the difference for the Hope College women's lacrosse team in a 17-14 loss to the University of Mount Union (Ohio) on Saturday.

In a match between MIAA and Ohio Athletic Conference contenders, visiting Mount Union scored all four goals during the final 10 minutes to rally for the non-league victory.

The loss at Van Andel Soccer Stadium dropped the Flying Dutch to 5-4 on the season.

Hope's next game is the MIAA opener on Friday, April 8, at 6 p.m. against Saint Mary's College at Van Andel Soccer Stadium.

Photo of Kristen Szost (14) and Madison Micho (19) by Lynne Powe

Mount Union (6-2) took the lead for good early in the fourth quarter when Katie Clark scored twice in a span of 41 seconds.

Ashley Carr scored again 31 seconds after Clark's third and final goal of the game to extend Mount Union's lead to 16-14.

Mount Union limited Hope to two fourth-quarter shots and forced seven turnovers.

Four Flying Dutch collected three goals apiece: freshman Ruthie Anderson (Lowell, Michigan / Lowell), sophomore Molly Frederickson (Alto, Michigan / Lowell), senior Madison Micho (Grand Rapids, Michigan / East Grand Rapids), and sophomore Kristen Szost (Jenison, Michigan / International Academy).

Senior Sophie Ackerman (East Grand Rapids, Michigan / East Grand Rapids) registered a team-high two assists for Hope.

Sophomore Maddie Yakes (Rockford, Michigan / Rockford) made seven saves for the Flying Dutch.

Carr finished with six assists for Mount Union. Sydney Bumbarger had a team-high five goals.