HARRISONBURG, Va - The Royals fought hard but couldn't hold off a late surge by the Panthers, ultimately falling in a competitive matchup.
 
The Royals jumped to an early 3-2 lead in the first quarter, but Ferrum's quick offense and standout goalie performance allowed the Panthers to take control and secure a 14-8 win.
 
Records: EMU 4-8, 2-3 ODAC | Ferrum 3-7, 1-6 ODAC 
 
Highlights
 
First Quarter

• The Royals came out strong with two goals within the first five minutes from Alex Palizzi at the 12:35 mark and Amber Bonds following at 11:14 to give them an early 2-0 lead. 
• The Panthers picked up their first goal at the 5:23 mark, followed by another at 4:45 to tie up the game at 2-2.
• Less than a minute later, Bailey Freeman put one in the back of the net, allowing the Royals to end the first quarter with a 3-2 lead. 

Second Quarter

• Ava Walker put her name on the board by scoring the first goal of the second quarter at 9:15, but the Panthers quickly followed by scoring one at 6:52. 
• In the final minute of the quarter, the Panthers scored back-to-back goals to take a 5-4 lead at the break. 

Third Quarter

• The Panthers came out hot with two goals within the first minute, but Bonds returned by scoring her second goal of the night and cutting the deficit to two, 7-5.
• Despite the Royals' strong defense, and three saves from Cristal Narciso, the Panthers scored one more at the 1:46 minute mark to finish the third quarter with an 8-5 lead. 

Fourth Quarter

• The Panthers started the quarter strong again, and scored four goals within the five minutes to push their lead to 12-5. 
• Walker then returned fire, scoring her second goal of the night on a free-position shot at the 10:08 mark.
• The Panthers then scored another pair of goals, but the Royals returned the favor with a goal from Bonds and Ainsley Clark's first of the night. However, despite the Royals' efforts, the Panthers secured the win with a final score of 14-8.  

Statistical Leaders 
Bonds: 3 goals, 5 ground balls, 3 caused turnovers
Walker: 2 goals, 6 ground balls 
Clark: 1 goal, 4 ground balls, 4 draw controls, 4 caused turnovers
Narciso: 7 saves
 
What's Next 
EMU will hit the road to Danville this Saturday to play against Averett University. First draw against the Cougars is set at 1pm.

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