The Austin Peay State University women’s lacrosse team got off to a strong start in the 2026 season as they pulled off a dramatic 15-14 win over Gardner-Webb on Saturday at Fortera Stadium, prevailing over a late charge by their opponent.
The game was a close battle from the outset, with the teams trading goals in the early stages. Gardner-Webb got off to a hot start, building an early lead in the first quarter with the help of some quick-hitting offensive possessions, but the Governors were able to keep the game in reach.
The offense for Austin Peay focused on balance rather than a single player dominating. Lauryn Warfield and Samantha Houtekier were the top scorers with four goals each, putting consistent pressure on their opponents throughout the game. Sophia Schwab followed up with three goals, and Mak Patten contributed two goals for her team.
Gardner-Webb stayed within striking distance thanks in large part to a stellar performance from Maddie Tredway, who scored five goals to lead the pack. Emma Duchscherer and McKensie Gehris contributed heavily to the game, keeping their team competitive deep into the fourth quarter.
However, the tide changed when Austin Peay scored five unanswered goals to turn a two-goal deficit into a two-goal lead. The Govs worked hard to gain possession and capitalize on scoring chances, thereby pulling away. Gardner-Webb scored some goals of its own to keep the game tight.
In the final minutes, Gardner-Webb mounted one last push, cutting the deficit to a single goal and threatening to equalize. Austin Peay answered with timely offensive execution and defensive stops, closing out the match as the Bulldogs ran out of time.
In the same game, Erin-Kate Roeder made four saves for the Governors, while Gardner-Webb goalkeeper Emma Anderson made nine saves, marking a busy day for the goalkeeper. The win gives Austin Peay a 1-0 start in the season, as they look forward to the next match of the season. The Govs will travel to Greenville, South Carolina, to face Furman on Feb. 20 at 5 p.m. for their next matchup.
