USF women’s lacrosse celebrated its third win of the season on Valentine’s Day, as they defeated Lehigh with a score of 17-7 on Lehigh’s season debut on Friday. 

The Bulls won their second home game with a final score of 17-7, successfully defending their now three-game win streak.

Attacker Juliana George scored the first goal of the game, as Lehigh trailed behind the bulls in all four quarters. 

The game celebrated faculty and staff members’ appreciation day. 

“Players really came out to play, and they really play together,” said coach Mindy McCord. “They love each other, and that’s what I’m seeing out there.”

USF took the lead early on, with four goals and 15 shots by the end of the first quarter, as Lehigh ended with one goal and two shots.

Attacker Juliana George started off strong with the first goal, along with an assist from attacker Maggie Newton.

Throughout the first quarter, both teams cheered for the players on the field, shouting for defense and encouraging teammates. Not long after, USF attacker Grace Brukiewa scored her second goal of the season.

Midfielder Kaitlyn Tartaglione set the stakes for Lehigh, securing the first goal of the second quarter. USF continued to lead throughout the game with 5 points ahead. 

While Lehigh came strong with the energy of its season debut, the Bulls kept a determined face the entire first half. Chants from both teams kept the energy high on the field.

”When you play as a team and you live your dreams together, you know you’re playing for something bigger than just you individually,” McCord said.

Related: USF women’s lacrosse nabs first win in program history

Nearing the end of the first half, Lehigh scored with less than two minutes left, catching up to the Bulls.

By the 14:20 mark of the second half, attacker Alison Harbaugh scored a goal with an assist by midfielder Kali Cleary. 

Attacker Ava Uphues scored a total of four goals, helping her team’s road to victory.

“Players like Ava really stepped up today,” said McCord.

End of the second half the Bulls kept a strong lead of 15-7, leaving Lehigh with less than five minutes for a recovery.

Morgan Perry scored the final goal of the game at the 1:24 mark. 

The Bulls defended their three game win streak, ending the game with a celebration. 

Women’s lacrosse will face Florida at Corbett Soccer Stadium 6 p.m. Tuesday.