RALEIGH, N.C. The Methodist women's lacrosse team's 2026 season came to an end on Thursday evening with a 12–5 loss to second-seeded Piedmont University in the semifinals of the USA South Tournament at the Meredith Athletic Field and Track Complex.
THE ESSENTIALS
Final score: Piedmont def. Methodist, 12–5
Records: Methodist 13–6, Piedmont 11–7
Location: Meredith Athletic Field and Track Complex; Raleigh, North Carolina
HOW IT HAPPENED
- After a strong opening quarter, the Monarchs carried a 3–0 lead into the second period behind goals from sophomore Rylie Sturgill and senior Layla Wiesenfeld, who scored twice in the frame. Methodist also turned in a strong defensive effort early, limiting Piedmont to just three shots in the first quarter.
- The Lions shifted momentum late in the first half following a red card issued to the Monarchs in the second quarter. Piedmont capitalized during the player advantage, scoring three unanswered goals to even the contest 3–3 heading into halftime.
- Out of the break, the Lions seized control of the game by outscoring Methodist 6–0 in the third quarter, building a 9–3 advantage entering the final period.
- Sturgill opened the fourth-quarter scoring for the Monarchs to trim the deficit to 9–4, but Piedmont answered with three consecutive goals to pull away. Senior Cheyenne Burton recorded the final Methodist goal of the evening.
FAST FACTS
- Sturgill and Wiesenfeld each finished with two goals.
- Sturgill, senior Brooke Murrell, and freshman Alana Rabon each tallied an assist.
- Sophomore goalie Amelia Fuentes posted career highs with 13 saves and 10 ground balls.
