The Lindenwood field hockey team fell for the second time in as many days, coming up short against Wittenberg (Ohio), 7-4. Despite receiving a hat trick from Lauren Cato, the Lions dropped to 0-4 on the year.

Cato scored all three of her goals in the second half, but the Lions could not overcome a 4-1 halftime deficit. Offensively, the Lions made strides compared to Saturday's effort against Ohio Wesleyan. Using an aggressive attack, Lindenwood recorded 16 shots on goal, including two penalty strokes.

Wittenberg opened the scoring on a goal by Boo Vernon just eight minutes into the contest. Later, Tori Casanta and Vernon extended the Tigers' lead to 4-1, by scoring three goals in a span of two and half minutes. The first came at the 24:00 minute mark after Vernon's pass was blocked and Casanta was able to regain possession, firing home her first of three goals. One minute later, Vernon connected with Casanta for her second goal. Vernon capped the first half scoring for Wittenberg after netting an unassisted goal seconds later. Irene Taranhike got the Lions on the board just before half, scoring on an assist from Kayleigh Harrower.

Midway through the second half, Casanta scored the eventual game winner on a breakaway, completing the hat trick. Cato responded by scoring her first goal and seconds later adding another on a penalty stroke. Trailing 5-3, the Lions never got closer surrendering goals to Elizabeth Dwyer and a penalty stroke score to Kelley Herde. With seven minutes remaining, Cato found the back of the net to complete her own hat trick.

Sam Brown made five saves in goal, but allowed all seven goals. The game featured three penalty strokes. Lindenwood attempted two, converting just one while Wittenberg scored on its only attempt.

Lindenwood will return home next weekend for a pair of games, starting Friday, against Hendrix College scheduled for 3:30 p.m.