INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. - NAIA #16 Marian scored three times in the second half to pull away for a 4-1 non-conference victory over the Lady Jackets in what was the season opener for both teams.

The Knights opened up a 2-0 lead with a goal midway through the first half and another just six minutes into the second period.

Cedarville enjoyed a brief shot of momentum when Kelly Wise converted a penalty kick in the 69th minute after the home team was called for a hand ball in the box. It was her first goal since 2008 after having to miss all of last season with a leg injury.

The excitement was short-lived as Marian needed just 68 seconds to expand the difference to 3-1. The Knights completed the scoring in the 79th minute.

Marian had the advantage in shots, 19-7, which included a convincing 10-1 margin in the second half. The shots on goal difference was 12-6.

Nicole Strehle handled the goalkeeping duties for the first time ever in her soccer career at any level because CU's top two keepers were unavailable. She responded nicely by making seven saves.

STATS