The girls lacrosse team defeated the rival Churchill Bulldogs 15-11 Monday, improving their record to 8-2 and helping them seize control of second place in their division.

The Vikings offense exploded in the win, proving too much for the 7-2 Bulldogs to overcome. Despite the wet conditions, the Viking attack shredded the Bulldogs defense.

After racing out to a 6-1 lead early, the Vikings struggled to close out the half, holding a narrow 8-7 lead at the break.

Both teams traded goals to begin the second half, but the Vikings pulled away after a flurry of goals by midfielder Maddie Parker. Parker, who recorded her second consecutive hat trick, tallied five goals in the game to lead the team.

The win made a convincing statement about the team’s playoff chances, according to Parker.

“This win shows everyone that we are an extremely strong team who has the potential of going very far in playoffs,” she said.

Attacker Ali Dane also had a hat trick, and Josie Schwartz and Caroline Schweitzer each scored twice.

The Vikings will try to extend their winning streak to three when they take on the 4-3-1 Clarksburg Coyotes this Friday.