The Lancaster Bible College women's soccer team, coming off a 2-14-2 season in 2009, was looking to reverse their fortunes from a year ago and get a win in their first game of 2010. The Alvernia Crusaders had other ideas.

The Crusaders scored twice in the first 13 minutes and defeated the Chargers, 3-1, at Charger Field on Wednesday. Amy Mesce opened the scoring just over three minutes into the game, scoring seconds after a Crusader corner kick. Laura Mauroschadt scored 11 minutes later to build the lead to two.

"We didn't start very well and our transitioning killed us," Chargers Head Coach Ken Craul said. "Our transitioning needs to be much quicker."

LBC (0-1) did manage to cut the lead in half just before halftime on Amanda Bracelin's first career collegiate goal. Whitney Heise's shot was blocked by Alvernia goalkeeper Kirsten Kelley, but the rebound popped out right to Bracelin's foot and she put it into the back of the goal with 48 seconds left in the half.

"Amanda's goal was a motivator for the girls heading into the half," Craul said. "It was a great way to end the half."

Alvernia controlled play for much of the second half and increased its lead back to two in the 69th minute when Mesce scored her second goal of the game. LBC mustered a few more chances, but could not convert.

Despite the loss, Craul said there were positives and things the Chargers can build on.

"We put some good touches together when we though we had time," Craul said. "Things were OK, but there are many things to work on."

LBC will have just two practices to work on things before they take on Penn State-Harrisburg in Middletown, Pa. on Saturday at 12:00 p.m.

Notes:
-LBC goalkeeper Emily Lloyd made 10 saves.

-Because of the95 degree heat, both teams used their bench early and often. Alvernia, including their 11 starters, played 23 players.

-The Crusaders held a 22-4 edge in shots.