Reading's McDonagh Leads Middlebury Into NCAA Third Round

Middlebury is one step closer to playing for an NCAA title, thanks in part to the work of former Reading School star Emma McDonagh.

McDonagh, a sophomore attack for the Panthers, scored four goals an added an assist in Middlebury's 10-9 win over Colby in the second round of the NCAA Division 3 tournament Sunday. Middlebury (15-4) will play Brockport (16-2) Saturday at 2:30 p.m. at Lions Stadium in Ewing, NJ, in the third round.

After a freshman year in which she had 12 goals and two assists, McDonagh took on a greater role this season and has scored 39 goals and 14 assists in 19 games. Against Colby her defense was a factor as well. With the score tied at 9-9, McDonagh forced a Colby turnover with a little over a minute to play. With possession, Middlebury scored the game-winner with 21.7 seconds remaining. The Panthers had lost to Colby twice this spring.

At RMHS, McDonagh finished her lacrosse career with 356 points after a senior season in which she had 97 goals. She was also captain of Reading's state title winning hockey team.

Former Reading star Emma McDonagh (11) and teammates celebrate during Middlebury's win over Colby in the NCAA tournament. Photo by Will Costello.