BRIDGEWATER, Mass. -- Junior midfielder Alix Madden scored with 1:28 remaining, allowing the Salve Regina University women's lacrosse team to edge Bridgewater State University, 9-8, Saturday afternoon at Mazzaferro Field in the Seahawks' opening game of the 2026 slate.

From the opening draw, the Seahawks played with purpose, striking first as Avery Nistl opened the scoring early in the first quarter. Though Bridgewater State answered with two quick goals to take the lead, Salve Regina responded with a balanced attack, with Daniella Bruno and Madison Maire adding goals to give the Seahawks a 3-2 lead after the first stanza. 

The middle stages of the game saw a back-and-forth exchange of goals. Salve Regina maintained an edge through disciplined play, and Alix Madden buried a goal in the second quarter to stretch the advantage. Bridgewater remained competitive, knotting the score at 4-4 before halftime. Maire struck again and Teagan McDonald added another goal to push the Seahawks ahead 6-5 as the third quarter expired. 

Entering the final quarter, the outcome remained in doubt. Bridgewater State closed the gap and briefly tied the score at 7-7, but Salve Regina's offense answered once more. Nistl's second goal of the day and a late tally from Madden sealed the tight contest, giving the Seahawks a one-goal lead they would not relinquish.

INSIDE THE MATCHUP
Final: Salve Regina 9, Bridgewater State 8
Records: Salve Regina (1-0,0-0 NEWMAC), Bridgewater State (0-2, 0-0 MASCAC)

NOTEWORTHY

• The Bears outshot the Seahawks 16-13.
• The Seahawks picked up 15 ground balls lead by efforts from Adelaide Baird, who had five.
• Alexandra Walsh led Salve Regina's defensive efforts with three caused turnovers.
• Mary Flynn Kayajan protected the net with 15 saves for the Seahawks.