BLACKSBURG – Southern Cal scored the game's first goal in under three minutes, and would build a 5-0 lead, which it would not relinquish as John Sung and the Hokies fell 11-6 on opening day from the Indoor Practice Facility.
The Hokies started to grab a foothold in the game following a goal from Mary Claire Byrne from a free position attempt which ignited a 3-goal spurt to close the gap.
Paige Petty and Tristan McGinley were also on target for Tech.
GOAL @doitlike_byrnie !!!! pic.twitter.com/K31ZXNUgba
— VT Lacrosse (@HokiesLax) February 10, 2018
The Trojans outscored the Hokie 6-2 in the second frame, stretching the lead with goals from Kelsey Huff, Hope Anhut and Izzy McMahon, who scored five points in the game.
USC converted all 18 of their clear attempts in the game, while Tech fumbled six of their opportunities. The Trojans also possessed more draws and held a shot advantage in the game.
Petty, playing her first collegiate game got that start and found the back of the net twice from her spot in midfield.
McGinley also chipped in with two scores and collected four draw controls.
Leigh Lingo, getting a start in her first game came up with four ground balls, as did Byrne to go with her three caused turnovers.
Redshirt senior Meagh Graham made six saves in goal on the afternoon.
Next up: Tech travels up I-81 to take on James Madison on Wednesday, Feb. 14 at 4 p.m. The Dukes are 1-0 following a victory over No. 3 North Carolina in double overtime.
In last season's meeting, the Dukes won a 9-6 game played at Thompson Field.