LAKEWOOD, Wash. - The Pacific Lutheran University women's golf squad battled the elements and its crosstown rivals on Sunday to open the 2021 season, downing University of Puget Sound by 19-strokes in a dual match at Oakbrook Golf Club.

"We finally got a round of golf in! It was cold and windy and the team did great. I just love how they handle anything that is thrown at them. We have become the masters of variability and are just grateful to get to compete!" said Head Coach Sara Griffin.

The Lutes outshot the Loggers 357 to 376 on Sunday to secure the dual match win. Nicole Matiatos took top billing, shooting a 78 and owning a 12-stroke advantage on the rest of the field. Teammate Lauryn Tsukimura was runner-up, carding a 90 while Emily Fisher was sixth with a 94. Lila Ridge and Sophie Kass finished one stroke behind Fisher, both finishing with a round of 95 to place seventh overall.

"There were many highlights today with some long putts made and a chip in and some solid shots given the conditions. We're excited to get to travel as a team this weekend to Portland. It will be fun to travel in style with the men's team! Emily, our first-year, hung in there as well and it will be fun to see what she can do as a newcomer in the conference! Lauryn, Sophie, and Lila had some good moments and are excited to improve this weekend."

The Lutes return to the golf course on Saturday, trekking to Aloha, Oregon for the NWC Fall Classic held at The Reserve Vineyard & Golf Club.