Middlebury, Vt. — The Bates women's lacrosse team faced a daunting challenge on Saturday, traveling to take on No. 1 Middlebury, the three-time reigning NCAA Division III national champion. The Panthers showed why they're the top team in the nation, defeating the Bobcats 18-1 at Peter Kohn Field.

Caitlin Quinn (Fy.) provided the lone goal (4th of season) for Bates (5-2, 2-1 NESCAC), scoring unassisted with just six seconds remaining in the second quarter. Middlebury owned a 34-10 shot advantage over the Bobcats. 

Middlebury (5-0, 3-0 NESCAC) wasted little time establishing control of the contest, netting seven goals in the first quarter. Hope Shue led the Panthers with three goals and an assist. The Panthers' balanced attack saw 12 different players collect at least one tally.

Raegan White (Jr.) made seven saves in the first half for Bates, while Molly Urbonas (Fy.) recorded one of her own in the second. The Bobcats struggled to maintain possession, committing 15 turnovers and losing the draw control battle 15-7.

Middlebury capitalized on Bates' penalties, scoring seven man-up goals on the day. The Panthers also had a strong showing in transition, completing 13 of 14 clear attempts.

The Bobcats will look to bounce back on Thursday when the garnet and white hosts Plymouth State University at 1:00 p.m. for a special weekday matinee at Garcelon Field.