NORTH CANTON, Ohio – The Roberts Wesleyan women's lacrosse team fought through a challenging season-opening game to defeat Walsh University 15-13.
 
In a game that featured 15 total cards handed out between both teams, any resemblance of rhythm to the game was tossed aside. Despite the lack of game flow the Redhawks gutted out the win to start the season 1-0 for the fourth straight year.
 
"We never doubted that we would find a way to come out on top," said head coach Kristin Paolini. "We had to battle more than just the opponent today, but at the end of the day we got a tally in the win column."
 
Madison Bell scored six goals and had two assists to lead the offense. Alexis Grant scored four times to go along with one assist. Lindsey Brinkel added three goals and an assist while also eclipsing the 200 point mark in her career. Rhiannon Burto and Ellen O'Neil each had one goal.
 
Walsh got on the board first, but Grant responded with two straight goals to give Roberts the lead. The Redhawks held the lead for the majority of the contest, but a strong third quarter by Walsh which saw a four goal run tied the game at 12-12.
 
Roberts had the solution with a three goal run of their own, including back-to-back goals from Brinkel and one from Bell.
 
Natalie Arieno made 11 saves in net to secure the win.
 
The Redhawks (1-0) will be back in action again on Friday on the road at Saint Michael's College.