SALEM, Ore. – It was a monumental day for the Corban University women's lacrosse team, which played in its inaugural match on Saturday afternoon. Competing against crosstown rival Willamette University, the Bearcats captured a 19-2 triumph in the Warriors' program debut.

Beyond the final score, the duel represented an important moment in the team's history, representing the culmination of a process that began back when the program was first announced in September of 2018.

"I am so pleased with how we played today," said head coach Kylie McMinn. "For our first game in program history, we showed immense hustle, heart, and some flashes of brilliance. This is a strong starting point, and we have a lot to work with moving forward. I am extremely excited to see how far we progress this year as we come together as a team. Go Warriors!"

Two goals in the first five minutes from Willamette's Anabel Ohsman gave the Bearcats an early 2-0 advantage.

The next score of the game came from Sydney Davis, who became the Navy and Gold's first-ever goal scorer just under 10 minutes in. That cut the deficit in half, and just over four minutes later, Liliana Rigdon scored to even the game at two. Joanna Wattimena set up the game-tying goal with a beautiful pass to earn an assist on the play.

Unfortunately, the Bearcats would respond with fifteen-consecutive goals from that point on, with Corban's third and final tally coming with five minutes left to play. It was once again Davis that struck, with the freshman attacker showcasing her elite playmaking ability in the season opener.

For Willamette, Ohsman led the way with five goals and four assists, while Maddie Garcia, Catie Kawamura, and Analise Wilson each earned hat tricks.

Corban's Meredith Pinkerton tallied five draw controls in the defeat, leading the squad in the category. On the defensive end, Wattimena led the Warriors' by causing five turnovers.

As the team continues to come together in the early stages of the 2021 season, it will be exciting to see how the squad builds upon Saturday afternoon's moments of excellence.

The Navy and Gold (0-1) will return to action on March 7, traveling north to Tacoma, Wash. to face off with the University of Puget Sound. Game time is slated for 1 p.m.