HARROGATE, Tenn. — The Lincoln Memorial women's lacrosse team (4-1) will open South Atlantic Conference play on Friday morning against the Coker Cobras riding a program-long four-game winning streak. The match is schedule for an 11 a.m. start at the Rocky Top Sports World Complex in Gatlinburg, Tenn.
 
The Cobras are coming into the game with a 2-2 record, evening their record with a 21-4 pasting of Chowan University on February 27. Coker is led offensively by reigning SAC Astroturf Offensive Player of the Week Faith Kent, who registered seven goals in the win over Chowan.
 
"Coker has a number of returning starters that we are familiar with," said Head Coach Caitlyn Corace. "They've added some new players that we have to be prepared for. They are 2-2 and we have to be ready for a tough game."
 
Through its first five games, LMU has featured a potent offensive attack led by Erin DePaul, Kelly Csenar, Casey Kelly and Amara Moss. The offense has poured in 60 goals over that span, led by DePaul's 16 and Csenar's 12. However, it has been a stout defense, led by Zoe Zervos and goalie Mikayla Starnes that has contributed to the winning streak.
 
"Zoe's communication as our leader on defense has really helped keep the girls focused," noted Corace. "They know that she is going to tell them where to go and be in position. They have been pretty solid all season."
 
Starnes has come up big for the Lady Railsplitters in goal, especially late in games.
 
"Mikayla has really stepped up and been very consistent," praised Corace. "You want consistency in a goalie. Unfortunately we have been putting a lot of teams on the eight meter line for free position shots a little more than I would like, but when that happens we have a lot of confidence in her to make the save and she does.
 
"She has really stepped up as a leader this year," she continued. "She is smart and knows the game so I think that has really given her a confidence boost."
 
Free position opportunities for the opposition have been a sore spot for LMU so far this season. Opponents hold a two-to-one advantage in free position attempts. 
 
"We are being a little too aggressive down in the defensive zone," said Corace. "We have to be a little more disciplined and not commit fouls that give them more opportunities at a free shot."
 
Follow the action on Friday via live stats at www.lmurailsplitters.com.