PITTSBURGH (Feb. 19, 2011) – The Saint Francis University lacrosse team fell into an early hole but, despite a strong second half, ended up dropping its season-opener, 18-9, to Duquesne at Rooney Field on Saturday afternoon.

The Dukes (1-0) scored the first eight goals of the game, including three-straight from Meredith Dunn, to clinch a commanding lead. The Red Flash, however, came around late in the first half and match Duquesne goal-for-goal for the remainder of the contest.

“Despite our rough start we had solid leadership in our midfield to help produce goals,” said SFU head coach Steph Marcon. “As the game went on, we made better connections on attach and played as a unit on defense.”

“We know what areas of our game we need to improve upon and are looking forward to our next game.”

Catherine Helming (Canandaigua, N.Y./Canandaigua) scored a team-high three goals on the afternoon, while two other Flash players – Danielle Conwell (Roxbury, N.J./Roxbury) and Sheri Fort (Sicklerville, N.J./Washington Twp) – chipped in two goals apiece.

Senior goalkeeper Danielle Pokusa (Cinnaminson, N.J./Cinnaminson) took the loss in what was nine-save outing.

The Red Flash will try again for their first win when they visit Liberty on March 1 for a 4 p.m. contest. SFU downed the Flames, 16-5, in Loretto a season ago.