The Ballard High School lacrosse team got more than they could handle from Issaquah in a season-opening, 17-5 loss March 16.

Issaquah was able to get out in front early, winning face-offs and scoring three quick goals to open the match, and Ballard never threatened, trailing 12-2 at the half.

Coach Lise Martin said the score was about what she expected for a first match from a Ballard team that includes a number of freshmen and some players that have never played lacrosse before against a very skilled Issaquah team.

Martin said the team was able to increase its intensity as the game wore on and should only see improvement as the players get more experience.

Junior captain Maddie Soukup led the Beavers with three goals, including an impressive leaping score against multiple Issaquah defenders to get Ballard on the board.

Junior captain Jayne Barnes and freshman Sophie Mora finished with a goal apiece.

Sophomore goalie Hannah Breton finished with eight saves.

Ballard will look to rebound against Kennedy at 5:15 p.m. on March 17 at Kennedy High School.