FAYETTEVILLE, N.C.-- University of Lynchburg women's lacrosse team opened the season with a decisive 15-4 victory over Methodist on Monday afternoon, controlling the game after an early back-and-forth first quarter.

Methodist (0-1) struck twice in the opening six minutes to grab an early edge, but Lynchburg (1-0) quickly found its footing. Goals from Mya Hausauer and Sydney Dumas leveled the score before the Hornets surged ahead late in the first quarter. Lynchburg closed the opening period on a 4-0 run, taking a 4-2 lead it would not relinquish.

The Hornets continued to apply pressure in the second quarter, scoring four times while limiting Methodist to zero goals. Hausauer added two goals in the frame, while McKenna Steinau and Dumas contributed another as Lynchburg built an 8-2 advantage at the break.

Lynchburg's offense stayed efficient in the second half, opening the third quarter with three goals in the first four minutes to extend the lead into double digits. Dumas and Hausauer continued to pace the attack, while the Hornets' defense forced turnovers, went 13-13 on clears, and limited Methodist's opportunities in transition. 

Dumas finished with a game-high five goals and one assist, reaching 203 career points -- seventh all-time in program history and the eighth to hit 200. 

Hausauer and Steinau each added four goals.Emmy Clay recorded a goal and an assist, and Isabella Vogel chipped in a first-quarter tally. Lynchburg out-shot Methodist 29-8 and held a 24-16 edge in ground balls, controlling possession throughout the contest.

Lynchburg looks to carry the momentum forward as it continues non-conference play on Sunday, Feb. 15, at Felician. 

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--LYN--