The Lindenwood field hockey team began its season on a high note, defeating the visiting Indiana University of Pennsylvania Crimson Hawks 3-1 on Friday night from Hunter Stadium. Senior Greta Banholzer found the back of the cage twice in the first half to build an early 2-0 lead before Bridget Hoogendijk tacked on an insurance goal late in the second half to seal the victory.

Noor Fons assisted on the first goal of the season for the Lions, finding an opening for Banholzer to knock it past IUP keeper Alyssa Lerda. Banholzer scored 12 minutes later in the opening half to build a 2-0 lead for the home team. 

The Crimson Hawks snuck one past defending ECAC co-Goalie of the Year Skylar Starbeck less than three minutes into the second half, but the defense held strong for the final 22 minutes to hold the visitors to just one score. Hoogendijk added to the Lindenwood lead with 11 minutes remaining to make the score 3-1. 

Starbeck made seven stops on the night, as IUP had 11 total shots. Lindenwood dominated the penalty corner attack, 10-5, but just 5-4 in the second half. Banholzer was a perfect two-for-two on her pair of shots on the afternoon. Hoogendijk led the Lions with three shots on goal and four total. Renee Duffy and Jessie Londono each had two shots. 

Lindenwood will conclude its opening weekend on Sunday with a 12 p.m. contest against ECAC-rival Bellarmine at Hunter Stadium. It will be the first conference game of the season for both teams.