HARRISONBURG, Va. - Despite the snow still covering most of the ground, EMU LAX was able to kick off its 2026 season on Saturday, welcoming in Methodist. 

It was a tight game at the half, with Methodist leading 5-1. But the Monarchs outscored EMU 9-1 in the second half, to pick up a 14-2 win. 

Records: EMU 0-1, 0-0 ODAC | Methodist 1-1, 0-0 USA South

Highlights

First Quarter

• Methodist got on the board first to start the game, with Layla Wiesenfeld scoring three minutes into the quarter for a 1-0 lead. 
• EMU struck back less than a minute later. After a save by Alyssa Hunter, EMU's clear attempt gave them the ball in the Monarchs defensive end. Ava Walker drove to her left, split a pair of MU defenders and, as she was sprinting to her right, scored off a sidearm shot to tie things at one apiece. Unfortunately for EMU, despite four more saves from Hunter in the quarter, Methodist added two more goals to lead 3-1 after one. 

Second Quarter

• EMU was only able to pick up one shot on goal in the second quarter; a shot from Hailey Walker that was saved. MU added two more goals in the frame while Hunter picked up one more save, as Methodist took a 5-1 lead into the break.

Second Half

• The third quarter was all Methodist, as they extended their lead to 12-1 with seven third-quarter goals.    
• In the fourth,  EMU was able to cut into the Monarchs lead, when Ava Schwartz rocketed a goal past the MU keeper, for her first collegiate goal.
• Hunter tallied four more saves in each of the third and fourth quarters, to bring her total up to 14 for the game. 

Statistical Leaders
Goals: A. Walker, Schwartz (1)
Ground Balls: Hunter (5)
Draw Controls: A. Walker (4)
Saves: Hunter (14)

What's Next
EMU is back in action on Wednesday, when they head to PA to take on Lebanon Valley College. Gametime against the Dutchmen is set for 7:00 pm. 

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