MISENHEIMER, N.C. (April 3, 2026) — Freshman Quinn Branca scored three goals to lead Pfeiffer, but the Falcons were unable to overcome a fast start by Methodist in an 18-5 loss Friday afternoon at Lefko Mills Field.

Pfeiffer (8-4, 2-3 USA South) faced an early deficit as Methodist scored nine times in the opening quarter, but the Falcons responded with improved play over the final three periods, matching the Monarchs 4-4 after halftime.

Branca opened Pfeiffer's scoring late in the first quarter and added two more goals in the third, accounting for more than half of the Falcons' offense. Skyla Jo Charette added two goals, including a man-up score midway through the second quarter, while Cerys Reid tallied a goal early in the third to cap Pfeiffer's scoring.

Despite the early hole, Pfeiffer showed resilience, stringing together multiple defensive stops and controlling stretches of possession in the middle quarters. The Falcons narrowed the gap to 12-4 by halftime and held Methodist without a goal for extended stretches in the third quarter.

Falcon goalkeeper Clara Smith made several key saves against heavy pressure, finishing with six saves while facing 30 shots. Pfeiffer also matched Methodist in draw controls (12-12).

Methodist (10-4, 5-1) maintained control behind a balanced attack, but Pfeiffer limited the Monarchs to three goals in both the third and fourth quarters after the opening 15 minutes.