Colorado Mesa University was faced with their toughest test of the season on Friday, with a matchup against No. 3 Lindenwood University (LU). After keeping it close in the first half, the Lions were able to open up a big lead in the second half and defeated the Mavericks 17-9.
 
CMU and LU were matching each other blow for blow through the first 20 minutes of action. Two goals by Olivia Hayden helped tie the game up at 3-3. Over the final 10 minutes of the first half however, the Lions would score four unanswered goals to push their lead to 7-3. Hayden would get her hat trick with 55 seconds remaining to cut the lead just before halftime.
 
In the second half, the Lions opened up showing why they are one of the top three teams in the nation. They scored six of the first seven goals to build up a 13-5 lead with just over 13 minutes to play in regulation. CMU would score three of the next four goals over the course of six minutes to get within six, but the Lions rallied off three quick scores to put the game completely out of reach.
 
LU was able to not only double up the Mavericks in score, but they did so in shots as well. They finished with 38 shots to the Mavericks 19, which included 29 shots on goal. The Lions' defense was also a strong point throughout the game, making it difficult for the Maverick's offense to get any opportunities. CMU ended the game with a season high 31 turnovers.
 
Hayden and Jessica Cook finished with a team high four points each to lead CMU. Lula Mitchell was in goal, and she finished the day with 12 saves.
 
CMU will now come home for three games in two weeks, including a matchup against No. 12 Regis University on March 31.