BELTON, Texas - The aggressive Pirate offense came to play in Southwestern's season opener against the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor on Wednesday. SU defeated the Cru 3-2 by scoring two goals in the final 12 minutes of the contest. Junior forward Jillian Curran (pictured) did a sensational job setting up her teammates, earning the assist on all three goals.

UMHB started the scoring when Salyer's lofted shot went just over Southwestern's diving keeper Sarah Nonaka and into the back of the net just eight minutes into the contest. The Pirates quickly responded, however, when first-year Paige Duggins scored on a header off of Curran's crossing ball in the 12th minute.

The rest of the first half remained scoreless but the Cru quickly pulled ahead, needing just five minutes after halftime to score again to go up 2-1. It wasn't until the 77th minute that Southwestern was able to pull even at 2-2. A long cross from Curran came to junior Laura Ornelas who drilled her shot into the upper ninety. The Pirates took the lead, 3-2, on sophomore Danielle Madison's shot that was lined over the keeper's head on a pass from Curran in the 81st minute.

Stifling defense helped secure the win as the Cru desparately attempted to tie the game once again.

The Pirates attempted 13 shots to the Cru's 19. Nonaka recorded three saves in the contest.

Southwestern will come home for the first time this season on Monday, September 6th as they face Texas Lutheran University at 3:00 pm.