GEORGETOWN, Texas - Southwestern's offense was slow out of the gate and defense tested early as the Pirates fell 4-0 to Pacific Lutheran University to open the 2013 season. 

PLU came out strong, ready to defend their home turf and fired off the first shot of the game just 17 seconds in. First-year keeper Mariah Escajeda was kept busy early on as she recorded five saves in the first 24 minutes of the contest. 

Southwestern had their scoring opportunities as well, but it was the Lutes who scored first on a rebound to take the lead, 1-0, 25 minutes into the match. 

Just one minute later PLU added one more to take a 2-0 lead into halftime. 

As the second half kicked off Southwestern adjusted their plan and put the pressure on the Lutes. Two Pirate goals were saves in the first seven minutes of the game. PLU extended their lead in the 54th minute and added one more in the 73rd to arrive at the 4-0 final. 

PLU's Samantha Benner scored two goals to lead offensively. The Pirates were outshot 27-4 and took one fewer corner kick, 3-2. Escajeda recorded eight saves in her first start in goal. 

Southwestern starts the year 0-1 and remains in Washington to face Whitworth College on Saturday.