MADISON, N.J. – The Drew University women's lacrosse team trailed just 7-4 at halftime, but Montclair State University pulled away in the second half to hand the Rangers a 16-7 setback in the season opener for both teams Saturday afternoon at a frigid Ranger Stadium.
 
The game marked the Drew debut for Ranger first-year Head Coach Stefani Peluso.
 
Junior Aubrey Welch paced the Rangers with three goals and one assist while classmate Emma Gallaro contributed seven draw controls. In goal, sophomore Paige Shaw finished with 12 saves while playing the opening three quarters before freshman Rorrie Sifers came on for the final period.
 
Cara McCartney and Chelsea Stack posted four goals and one assist apiece for the Red Hawks.
 
Welch and Gallaro scored one goal apiece in the first quarter and trailed 4-2 heading into the second quarter. Drew scored two of the first three goals in the second quarter, as freshman Kristina Lowe and sophomore Grace Patane struck once each to cut the deficit to 5-4. However, that's when the visitors went on an 11-0 run over the last three quarters to break it open.
 
Welch tacked on a pair of fourth-quarter goals for Drew.
 
The Rangers pick up their schedule next Saturday, when they visit Vassar College in a non-conference tilt.