Ohio State then-freshman midfielder Liza Hernandez looks to pass in the offensive zone against Stanford on Feb. 24 at Ohio Stadium. Credit: James King | Sports Director

The Ohio State women’s lacrosse team fell short to No. 10 Navy, losing 9-7 in its season opener Saturday.

Ohio State sophomore midfielder Liza Hernandez cut the Midshipmen lead to two, bringing the score to 9-7 with 3:55 left to play in the second half. But the Buckeyes were not able to complete a comeback.

Ohio State struck first when junior attacker Sarah Dickinson scored following an assist by junior midfielder Baley Parrott 2:20 minutes into the first half.

A foul on Hernandez gave Navy the opportunity to strike back and sophomore attacker Kelly Larkin put the first goal on the board for Navy.  

The Midshipmen extended the lead when senior midfielder Jenna Collins buried three consecutive goals in a span of less than three minutes. Junior midfielder Andie O’Sullivan added a free position goal with 15:49 left in the half to put Navy up 5-1.

After a foul on Navy sophomore midfielder Kayla Harris, Hernandez scored a free-position goal. Parrott immediately followed up by scoring to bring the Buckeyes within two.

Following an assist by senior attacker Julia Collins, Jenna scored again to give Navy a three-goal lead entering halftime.

Ohio State sophomore goalie Jillian Rizzo made a save early in the second half to prevent Navy from extending the lead. Senior attack Molly Wood capped off the save with a goal to bring the score to 6-4.

A foul on Ohio State senior midfielder Shannon Rosati allowed Navy to extend its lead on a free position shot. The Midshipmen quickly followed up with another goal by junior attacker Molly O’Sullivan to give Navy a four-goal lead.

Goals by Parrott and Hernandez closed Navy’s lead to two. Hernandez attempted another shot with 1:48 left, but a save by senior goalie Ingrid Boyum secured the game for Navy.

Hernandez and Parrott led Ohio State in goals with two each. Rizzo had 17 saves.

Ohio State will play Detroit Mercy in its home opener at 7 p.m. Friday.