The Chargers lacrosse team hosted the Central Connecticut State University (CCSU) Blue Devils for their senior day match and won, 17-11. Backed by a balanced offensive effort and strong control of possession, the Chargers used a decisive second-quarter surge to take command and they never relinquished it.
Before the opening draw, New Haven honored its senior class: Caitlin Seleny, Summer Castiglione, Elyssa Bower, Kendall Morrill and Corrie Bartos. The group’s presence was felt throughout the game, particularly in the offensive flow and composure that defined the Chargers’ performance. Seleny, a key facilitator all season, led all players with seven assists, orchestrating the attack and consistently setting up scoring opportunities. Castiglione added four goals on six shots, including two unassisted scores and a free-position conversion, while Helena Dunwoody anchored the scoring effort with seven goals on 12 shots.
New Haven established control early, but it was the second quarter that created separation. The Chargers generated 17 shots in the period, applying sustained pressure and capitalizing on repeated possessions. That offensive volume translated into a multi-goal advantage heading into halftime, as New Haven’s ability to move the ball efficiently exposed gaps in CCSU’s defense. Lucy Shafer contributed to that momentum with one goal and three assists.
Possession proved to be a defining factor throughout the game. New Haven won 19 draw controls compared to the Blue Devils’ 11, allowing the Chargers to dictate tempo and extend offensive sequences. The advantage was especially critical during key stretches in the second and third quarters, when New Haven limited transition opportunities and kept the Blue Devils on the defensive.
Defensively, New Haven complemented its offensive output with timely stops, finishing with 12 saves, including five in the fourth quarter. CCSU generated 29 shots and placed 20 on goal, but struggled to sustain scoring runs as the Chargers responded consistently on both ends of the field. While the Blue Devils remained within reach at times, particularly in the second half, each push was countered by New Haven’s ability to control possession and convert key opportunities.
Despite committing 15 turnovers to CCSU’s 11, the Chargers offset that margin with stronger draw control and more efficient shot production, finishing with 36 total shots and 25 on goal. Limited free-position opportunities resulted in one goal on two attempts for New Haven, while CCSU converted one of four.
The second-quarter breakout ultimately defined the game, giving New Haven the cushion it needed to manage the pace and close out the win.
After the win, the Chargers lacrosse team has an overall record of 4-9 and 3-5 in NEC play. New Haven will look to carry that momentum into its next and final matchup of the season against the Delaware State University Hornets on April 25. Draw is at 1 p.m. in Dover, Del. For more information, visit NewHavenChargers.com.
