ST. CHARLES, Mo. — Stetson dropped a hard-fought 16–14 decision to Lindenwood on Saturday at Hunter Stadium. The Hatters carried a lead into the fourth quarter, but a late surge by the Lions ultimately swung the result.
After a slow start, Stetson found its rhythm in the second quarter, erupting for seven goals to seize control. Lexi Bird sparked the run with a player-up goal to even the score, while Kathleen Nichols and Ryley Heilmann powered the offense throughout the period. Heilmann recorded a hat trick, while Nichols notched her second consecutive hat trick, helping the Hatters take a 9–7 lead into halftime.
The momentum carried into the third quarter, where Stetson continued to answer each Lindenwood push. Goals from Heilmann and Nichols, along with a key score from Emma Masterson, allowed the Hatters to maintain their edge and take a 12–11 advantage into the final frame.
Lindenwood responded in the fourth with a decisive scoring run, capitalizing on possessions and converting key opportunities to regain the lead. Despite the shift in momentum, Stetson continued to battle down the stretch. Alexa Vega and Luana Engel each found the net late to keep the Hatters within striking distance, but the comeback effort came up just short.
Stetson Top Performers
Stetson returns to action on Thursday, April 16, traveling to face Kennesaw State at 1 p.m. in Kennesaw, Georgia.
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About Stetson Athletics
At Stetson University, student-athletes don't just compete—they thrive. Located in historic DeLand, Florida, between Orlando and Daytona Beach, Stetson offers the perfect blend of competitive athletics, academic excellence, and an unbeatable Central Florida lifestyle. As the oldest private university in the region, Stetson supports approximately 500 student-athletes across 19 NCAA Division I sports. Nicknamed the "Hatters" after the institution's namesake John B. Stetson, a hat manufacturer who originated the modern-day cowboy hat, most Stetson athletic teams compete in the Atlantic Sun Conference, where they proudly hold the longest active membership since 1985. With top-tier facilities, personalized support, and a welcoming campus community, Stetson is where students can grow, compete, and succeed. Learn more at GoHatters.com or follow social media accounts @StetsonHatters.
