UC Davis Lacrosse Edges Cal in High-Scoring Road Victory

BERKELEY, Calif. — A late goal from Lauren Picardi secured a 13-12 victory for the UC Davis Aggies over the California Golden Bears on Monday, Feb. 23, in a back-and-forth contest at California Memorial Stadium. The game featured six ties and four lead changes, culminating in a hard-fought road win for the Aggies.

Picardi’s game-winner came with just over a minute remaining, completing a hat trick for the attacker and capping a performance that saw her contribute a total of five points, including two assists. The Aggies improved to 2-3 on the season, while the Golden Bears fell to 3-2.

Ava Horrocks led the Aggies’ offensive charge with a career-high four goals, marking the second hat trick of her freshman season. Jane Fox also registered a hat trick, her third of the season and second consecutive, contributing significantly to the Aggies’ scoring output. Cami Johnson added two goals, while Annie Cimperman dominated the draw circle with eight draw controls.

The Aggies responded quickly after falling behind early, with Horrocks scoring her first goal of the night following a Cal goal just a minute into the first quarter. Horrocks added her second goal five minutes later, tying the score at two. Fox then gave UC Davis the lead before Cal responded, setting the stage for a strong finish to the half by the Aggies.

UC Davis closed the first half on a 4-1 run, with Horrocks and Fox each completing hat tricks to establish a 7-4 lead at halftime. Picardi extended the Aggies’ lead to four early in the third quarter, but the Golden Bears mounted a comeback, scoring two quick goals to narrow the gap.

The momentum shifted as Cal scored four consecutive goals to retake the lead, putting the Aggies on the defensive. However, UC Davis responded with a goal from Rhea Cosand, assisted by Picardi, to tie the game at 10 heading into the final period.

The fourth quarter mirrored the earlier back-and-forth action, with both teams trading goals. After Cal took an early lead, Picardi and Johnson scored for the Aggies to tie the score once more. Following a draw control secured by Audrey Carr, Picardi found the back of the net for the game-winning goal.

Emily Altshuler anchored the Aggies’ defense with five saves and three ground balls, providing crucial support throughout the game.

The Aggies continue their road trip, heading north to face Oregon on Saturday, Feb. 28. The game is scheduled for 12:00 p.m. PT and will be available to watch on Massive Ten Plus.