LAKE WALES, Fla. – Eastern Oregon University Women's Lacrosse battled back with a strong second-half push but ultimately fell 16-12 to Warner University on Wednesday evening.

Warner used a decisive second quarter to take control, outscoring the Mountaineers 6-1 in the period to carry an 8-3 lead into halftime. Despite the deficit, Eastern Oregon responded with its most productive stretch of the game in the third quarter, scoring six goals and cutting into the Royals' lead.

Gemma Gonzales and Jade McCoy led the offensive effort for Eastern Oregon, each recording four goals. McCoy added an assist for a five-point performance, while Gonzales contributed across the field with a team-high 11 ground balls and nine draw controls. Grace Winebarger also had a strong outing, finishing with three goals.

The Mountaineers showed resilience coming out of halftime, using a flurry of goals midway through the third quarter to pull within three at 11-8. Winebarger and McCoy fueled the run, combining for four goals during that stretch. Eastern Oregon continued to apply pressure late in the game, adding three goals in the final quarter, including back-to-back scores from Gonzales in the closing minute.

Defensively, Maddie Wicks anchored the cage with 12 saves while playing all 60 minutes. The Mountaineers also held an advantage in draw controls (16-14), helping create extra opportunities throughout the contest.

The Royals' high-volume shooting attack (41 total shots) proved to be the difference, especially during their second-quarter surge. Eastern Oregon will look to bounce back quickly as they remain in Florida to take on Ave Maria University tomorrow, March 27, at 6:00 p.m. ET.