OWINGS MILLS, Md. - The Stevenson women's lacrosse team could not overcome a first half five goal deficit as ninth-ranked Salisbury posted a 9-5 victory in the season opener for both teams Saturday afternoon at Mustang Stadium.

The Mustangs (0-1), who face three top-10 teams to begin the season, are still looking for their first win over their former CAC-rival as the Sea Gulls have won all 23 meetings.

Salisbury (1-0) scored three unanswered goals to start the game, including the first tally just 1:41 into the contest as Gabbi Nieves and Megan Wallenhorst each had a hand in two goals. The duo combined for eight points in the game on three goals and five assists.

Junior Olivia Monteiro got the hosts on the board with 9:53 remaining in the opening half as should batted in a rebound off a free-position shot. Stevenson was just 1-for-5 on free-position shots, including 0-for-4 in the first half.

After Wallenhorst scored the opening goal of the second half to give the Sea Gulls a 7-1 lead, Monteiro and senior Carli Bafford scored back-to-back to get within four. But that would be as close as the Mustangs would get as each team scored twice over the final 15:24.

Sophomore Nicki Pate and junior Mackenzie Reese each scored their first goals in a Mustang uniform.

In goal, senior Maggie Lawder finished with nine saves while her counterpart Gianna Falcone recorded 12 before giving way with 4:47 remaining.

Stevenson returns to action on Wednesday, February 24 when the Mustangs host a non-conference contest versus No. 6 Gettysburg beginning at 4:00 p.m.