SALEM, ORE.—The backend of the Hamline University women's lacrosse team's spring trip pitted them at Willamette (Ore.) on Friday night. A fast start wasn't enough for the Pipers in a 16-8 loss to the Bearcats.

Hamline falls to 1-4, while Willamette improves to 6-1 overall.

Willamette 16, Hamline 8

The opening quarter resulted in efficiency for the Pipers, as three-of-four shots in the frame resulted in goals courtesy of Maria Lewis, Maitland Luksan, and Taryn Leonard. Leonard gave Hamline a 3-2 lead with 0:15 remaining in the first quarter. The Pipers couldn't attain that momentum as Willamette went on an 8-0 run en route to a 10-3 lead at the 10:38 mark of the third frame.

Hamline had the upper hand in shots 12-11 from that point forward, but the deep deficit was too much to overcome in a 16-8 loss.

Leonard finished the game with three goals, while Lewis added two goals along with a game-high seven draw controls. Michaela Arnold registered three-of-six Hamline caused turnovers in the game, while Molly Garin notched a team-high four ground balls and contributed one goal. Luksan finished with a team-best four points that consisted of two goals and two assists.

Willamette out shot Hamline 28-21.

Pipers goalies Corinne Cochran and Justine Case combined for seven saves, while Shelby Sawyer stopped six shots in net for the Bearcats.

Hamline will host Colorado College in their home opener at Klas Field on Thursday, March 24 at 4:30 p.m.