Junior Katie VanDeValk (Baldwinsville, NY) scored three goals for the Clarkson University Women’s Lacrosse team on Saturday afternoon, but the Golden Knights could not overcome a late run in the first half by conference powerhouse Union College as the Dutchwomen went on to a 12-6 win in Liberty League action in Schenectady, NY.

Trailing 3-0 just six minutes into the game, Clarkson battled back to force a 3-3 tie as VanDeValk, senior Saryn Campbell (West Bolton, VT) and junior Alyssa Cristaldi (North Syracuse, NY) scored quick goals in succession to tie the game just over a minute later.

Union (6-6, 6-1 Liberty League), however, regrouped and went on a four-goal run before the Knights answered back with VanDeValk’s second score of the game to close out the half with the Dutchwomen leading 7-4.

Union controlled the second half outscoring the Green and Gold 5-2 to close out the win at home. The Dutchwomen opened the half with a goal by Hilary Salander to go on top 8-4, but VanDeValk scored again to cut Union’s lead to three goals with 22 minutes to play.

That was as close as the Knights would come, however, as the Dutchwomen outscored Clarkson 4-1 down the stretch.

Junior Nicole Kelly (Syracuse, NY) rounded out the Clarkson goal scorers.

Emily McGrail scored three times to lead a balanced Union attack.

Union outshot the Knights 31-14 and held a 22-15 advantage in ground balls.

Senior Hannah Walters (Amherst, NH) made 13 saves for Clarkson. VanDeValk picked up a team-high four ground balls.

The Knights, who stand at 5-8 overall and 1-6 in the Liberty League, close out the season next weekend at home, hosting conference newcomer Bard College on Friday at 4:00 p.m., followed by Vassar College on Saturday in a 2:00 p.m. league game at Hantz Turf Field.