Game Recap: Rhodes vs. John Carroll University 
In a high-intensity showdown filled with momentum swings and standout plays, the Rhodes College lacrosse team defeated John Carroll by a final score of 13-12 on March 4, 2026 at Mason Field in Memphis, Tennessee. The contest featured a dramatic third-quarter surge from the Lynx, as Rhodes erupted for seven goals in the period to swing the momentum of the game. Despite a late push from the Blue Streaks, Rhodes held firm in the closing minutes to secure the victory and improve to 4-0 on the season.

Key Performances
Payton Stevens and Caroline Kardian led the scoring effort for the Lynx with three goals each, while Kardian also added one assist and controlled the draw circle with a team-high eight draw controls, helping Rhodes gain key possessions throughout the contest.

Freshman Sadie McRae delivered a standout performance offensively, tallying one goal and five assists for a game-high six points. Her playmaking ability sparked multiple scoring opportunities during Rhodes' decisive third-quarter run.

Anna Samuelson added two goals, while Sam Horowitz, Alban Erdle, Gracie Whicker, and Issa Allbritton each contributed a goal as Rhodes saw eight different players score in the balanced offensive effort.

Defensively, Rhodes controlled key ground-ball battles, finishing with 25 ground balls, including strong efforts from Maddie BeVier (4) and Daryn Raleigh (4) to help limit John Carroll's second-chance opportunities. 

In goal, freshman Annabelle Kinzel delivered a crucial performance, playing all 60 minutes and recording 12 saves to earn the win. Kinzel made several timely stops throughout the game, particularly during John Carroll's late surge in the fourth quarter, helping the Lynx protect their narrow lead and secure the victory.

Game Highlights
The two teams battled evenly through the opening half, trading goals and heading into halftime tied 4-4. John Carroll briefly seized momentum early in the third quarter, taking a 6-4 lead.

Rhodes quickly responded with an explosive stretch, scoring seven goals in the third quarter. The Lynx offense caught fire with goals from Issa Allbritton, Payton Stevens, Caroline Kardian, Anna Samuelson, Gracie Whicker, Sam Horowitz, and Kardian again, turning a two-goal deficit into an 11-9 advantage entering the final quarter.

Rhodes extended its lead to 13-9 midway through the fourth after goals from Sadie McRae and Stevens, but John Carroll mounted a late comeback attempt with three unanswered goals. Strong defensive stands and key saves from Kinzel in the closing minutes preserved the 13-12 victory.

Up Next: Rhodes vs. Randolph Macon College
With the win, Rhodes improves to 4-0 on the season and will now turn its attention to its next matchup against Randolph Macon College on March. 7. The Lynx will look to build on their strong start as they continue their early-season momentum.