DURHAM – No. 21 Duke scored 15 goals in the opening half and went on to a 22-7 win over Gardner-Webb in both teams' season opener.

Gardner-Webb (0-1) played nearly even with the Blue Devils (1-0) in the second half, scoring five goals in the final 30 minutes of a high-scoring game.

All-Big South midfielder Talen Francis led the Runnin' Bulldogs with three goals, while Jada Preston, Lauren Deaver, Megan Trout and Eilish Gately scored one goal apiece.

Preston and Gabby Zerna each had assists in the game. 

Gardner-Webb had 10 turnovers in the opening half, but cut those miscues in half over the final 30 minutes. GWU was also a perfect 6-of-6 on clears and converted all three free position chances.

Caroline DeBellis and Maddie Jenner led Duke with three goals each and DeBellis added four assists.

Gardner-Webb will open its 2020 home schedule on Sunday afternoon, hosting Howard at 1:00 pm in Spangler Stadium.