KENNESAW, Ga. – Gardner-Webb (0-3) women's lacrosse was dealt a tough 11-6 defeat at the hands of Kennesaw State on Thursday evening on Walens Family Field.

After falling behind 2–0 at the end of the first quarter, the Runnin' Bulldogs responded with their best stretch of the night in the second period. Maddie Tredway ignited the comeback with back-to-back unassisted goals before completing a first-half hat trick on a free-position score, helping Gardner-Webb pull within one at 4–3 heading into halftime.

Kennesaw State opened the third quarter with consecutive goals, but Gardner-Webb answered again. Jazmyn Morris scored twice in the period — including a man-up free-position finish — with Addi Cook providing the assist on the first, as the Runnin' Bulldogs closed the gap to 6–5 entering the final 15 minutes.

The fourth quarter proved decisive, as the Owls capitalized on extra possessions and converted several man-up opportunities to extend the margin. Gardner-Webb continued to battle to the final whistle, getting a late goal from Katie Westbrook off an assist from Jules Brown to cap the scoring.

Tredway led the Bulldogs offensively with three goals, while Morris added two and Westbrook chipped in one. Emma Anderson anchored the defense with 11 saves in goal as Gardner-Webb finished with a 22–18 edge in ground balls and forced 18 Kennesaw State turnovers.

Gardner-Webb returns to action on Wednesday, February 25 with a trip to take on Old Dominion. First draw control is scheduled for 4 p.m.