WATERLOO Ont. - For the first time in eight months, Laurier's women's basketball team was back in action Friday night for their 2022/23 season and home opener against Western. Despite a solid effort, the Golden Hawks dropped a 70-53 loss to the Mustangs. 

Looking to snap their four-game losing streak against Western (which dates back to November 23, 2019), Laurier came out with a solid first half, finding themselves down by just four. 

The first quarter saw Laurier simply outplay the Mustangs, shooting more efficiently and playing tight defence and forcing five Western turnovers. After the first quarter, Laurier led 14-12, with Cassidy Hirtle scoring four points.

Western began to get their feet under them in the second, outscoring Laurier 21-15 largely due to out-rebounding the Hawks 15-8 which provided many second-chance offensive opportunities. Golden Hawks rookie Kate White  led the way offensively in the frame with seven points in seven minutes of play

The third quarter was the difference-maker as the Mustangs held the Golden Hawks to just eight points to open up a lead they wouldn't relinquish.

With Laurier struggling from the field by going just 1 for 17, including 1 for 9 from three, Western took advantage by scoring another 21 points of their own. 

Western out-rebounded the Hawks again 17-10 and forced six Laurier turnovers. 

Laurier found their footing again in the fourth quarter, but Western did not slow down as they equalled the Golden Hawks' 16 points. The Hawks turned the tables by outrebounding the Mustangs 12-7 but it was too little too late as the Golden Hawks dropped their first game of the season.

After the game, Laurier Manager of Women's Basketball Operations and Head Coach Paul Falco conveyed how he thought his team's defensive intensity was good for long stretches but not high enough in the third quarter. 

"We played hard and together for three quarters but need to extend that to four quarters."

Second-year guard Miranda Campbell, who finished with a team-high 12 points, was proud of how her teammates "battled hard right to the end of the game."

'We just couldn't close the gap from the third quarter. We left it all on the floor but are looking to make it up tomorrow night against Brock."

Top Performers
Wilfrid Laurier Golden Hawks
Miranda Campbell
Campbell played a great game recording 12 points, four rebounds, and three assists. She also played well defensively, adding two steals to her stat line. 

Western Mustangs
Sarah Harvey
Harvey played an extremely efficient game, shooting 9 for 15 from the field, recording 22 points and six rebounds, while also recording a steal and a block.

Up next
Laurier travels to St. Catherines Saturday night to face the Brock Badgers for their home opener. Tip-off is set for 6:00 PM and can be seen live on OUA.tv