FAIRFIELD, Conn. (March 27, 2011) – The Saint Francis University lacrosse team wrapped up a frustrating opening weekend of Northeast Conference play with an, 18-9, loss at Sacred Heart on Sunday afternoon.

The Pioneers quickly overwhelmed the Red Flash, scoring the game's first seven goals to cruise to a 9-1 advantage at the intermission. Sophomore Danielle Conwell (Roxbury, N.J./Roxbury) scored the lone SFU tally in the opening period.

Sacred Heart continued its strong play in the second half while the Flash offense finally got on track to register eight goals in the second stanza.

Catherine Helming (Canandaigua, N.Y./Canandaigua) led the charge for SFU, firing three lamplighters to notch her fourth consecutive multi-goal game and her second-straight hat trick. Conwell finished with two goals.

SHU's Kaitlin Rocher racked up a game-best six scores.

The Pioneers held a 20-to-9 edge in draw controls, while turnovers were relative even. SFU committed 14 to Sacred Heart's 13.

Saint Francis returns to action on Friday when it welcomes Bryant to DeGol Field for a 4 p.m. match.