NEW YORK - Sophomores Abbey Lawrence and Devin Muracco connected for a game-tying goal in the second half, but the La Salle field hockey squad was unable to capitalize as Columbia scored twice late in a 3-1 decision in New York on Friday afternoon.

Lawrence drained the goal on a pass from Muracco, marking the first season points for both classmates.

Columbia's Katie Ruesterholz and Leah Matthews led all players with three points apiece on a goal and assist each to lead the Lions in their season opener. Matthews put the first score on the board in the 32nd minute when Ruesterholz found her near the cage.

Lawrence got the Explorers (0-3) on the board in the 54th minute to knot the score at 1-1. The tie was short-lived as Ruesterholz found the back of the cage less than seven minutes later on an assist from Matthews. Zoe Blake added the insurance goal for the home squad in the 68th minute off a penalty corner taken by Kyle Marsh. Marsh found Christina Freibott who got the ball to Blake for the final score.

Columbia dominated offensively, holding a 15-4 shot advantage; however, seven of the Lions' shots went wide or high. The Lions were also awarded nine penalty corners to the Explorers' three.

Rachel Hartman started in goal for the Explorers, making five saves in the effort. Columbia keeper Kimberly Pianucci stopped two shots while picking up the win.

The Explorers return to action on Wednesday, Sept. 10, when they host local rival Villanova in the home opener at 4 p.m. at Hank DeVincent Field.