FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. — The Linfield women's lacrosse team opened its 2025 season with an 19-8 loss to Methodist University on Friday evening at Monarch Stadium. Despite a strong effort from the Wildcats, they struggled to keep pace with a high-powered Methodist offense that dominated early and maintained control throughout the game.
Linfield's offense was led by
Maya Wright,
Emma Baker and
Gabby Crist who each scored two goals. Wright opened the scoring for the Wildcats with a goal at the 5:53 mark in the first quarter, cutting Methodist's early lead to 6-1. Baker added two goals in the second half, showcasing her ability to create opportunities in tight space while Crist added one goal in each half and an assist in the third period.
Savannah Irwin tallied one goal and three assists, demonstrating her crucial playmaking ability.
The Wildcats showed resilience in the second half, narrowing the scoring margin to 6-5 over the final two periods. After falling behind 13-3 at halftime, Linfield rallied to begin the second half with a goal early in the third period, but Methodist came back with three goals of their own before Linfield could get back on the scoreboard.
Defensively, Linfield faced a relentless Methodist attack led by Mikayla Ramos, who scored six goals and dished out five assists. The Wildcats' goalkeeper,
Tenley Hodge, made nine saves in her season debut, but the team struggled with turnovers, committing 25 compared to Methodist's 20. Linfield also had difficulty clearing the ball, finishing 11-of-20 on clear attempts.
Linfield's
Grayce Miller and
Mackenzie Kulick anchored the defense, combining for two caused turnovers, four ground balls and a goal. However, the Wildcats were hampered by penalties, receiving six green cards and one yellow card throughout the game, which allowed Methodist to capitalize on extra-player opportunities.
Despite the loss, Linfield showed flashes of potential, particularly in the second half. The Wildcats will look to build on this performance as the season progresses.
NEXT
The Wildcats remain in North Carolina for a game against Brevard on Sunday at 10 a.m.
