GREENVILLE, Pa. — Franciscan women's lacrosse suffered from some key missing players but persevered defensively through their first game of the season, an 18-1 loss to Thiel College.

Things looked promising as, down just 2-0 in the eighth minute, returning senior midfielder Jessica Bestgen scored the Lady Barons first goal off an assist from junior Lauren Noce.

The remaining 22 minutes of the half were a struggle for FUS, however, as Thiel's relentless offense scored 11 goals off 15 shots and finished the half with an almost insurmountable lead.

The second half proved to be much stronger defensively for the green and gold as they forced Thiel into more difficult shots with the Tomcats converting on just five of their fourteen shots. With only three shot attempts in the second half and six overall, the Lady Barons were unable to generate any significant offensive production to counter Thiel's attack.

"Based on the past two years, we knew it was going to be a tough game, and we kind of went in with that mindset, but we had a strong defensive wing subbed in for our missing goalie and we were missing one of our strong freshman midfielders as well," head coach Maura Conant said. "Missing three key positions on the field was a disadvantage for us for sure."

Despite the setback, sophomore Catherine Cahill stepped up to play goalie for the Lady Barons even though she had no experience in that position. Cahill saved seven shots throughout the night.

"Catherine is usually a defensive wing and has never played goal for us, but she just kept her head the whole time," Conant said.

Conant added that contributions from veteran defenders and midfielders were also significant, particularly in the second half.

"I really want to say all the midfielders and defense stood out, because they literally ran the entire time," Conant said. "Also, Lauren Noce is just a workhorse."

Conant said the team was able to reach some pre-game goals such as avoiding shooting space and three-second rule calls and successfully clearing the ball 12 out of 12 times. She said she was also happy to see an assisted goal.

"I think the main thing that happened today is some people were playing a little out of position," Conant said. "This is also an aggressive fast, skilled team, so I think it wasn't due to lack of skill, but just that we're panicked."

Conant said the team chemistry and mental strength will come with time as the team's six brand new players begin to gel with the rest of the returners. Meanwhile, the Lady Barons will focus on getting to open space and being able to outlet more quickly.

The team will next face Washington and Jefferson on the road on Saturday, February 28 at 1pm.