WINGATE — University of Mount Olive women's flag football team split a pair of contests at a tri-match on Saturday, falling 41-0 to Wingate University before bouncing back with a 26-18 victory over Mars Hill University.

In the opener, Mount Olive was limited offensively despite totaling 152 yards, with Jaylianie Lucas completing 14-of-28 passes for 87 yards. Saundra Funderburk led the Trojans with 41 rushing yards and added 39 receiving yards, while Aaliyah Cox highlighted the defense with an interception. Wingate capitalized on four interceptions and used a strong second quarter to secure the 41-0 result.

Mount Olive responded in the second game with a strong start, building a 13-0 halftime lead behind two early touchdowns. The Trojans extended their advantage to 26-6 in the second half before holding off a late push from Mars Hill to secure the 26-18 win.

Lucas paced the offense, completing 9-of-14 passes for 100 yards and two touchdowns, while Funderburk totaled 151 all-purpose yards, including 82 receiving yards and a touchdown. Alivia Conticello added a rushing score, and Cox contributed on both sides of the ball with a receiving touchdown and a 42-yard interception return for a score.

Defensively, Mount Olive recorded three sacks and forced a key turnover, with multiple players tallying at least two tackles to help seal the victory.

The Trojans controlled much of the contest before Mars Hill scored twice in the fourth quarter, but Mount Olive maintained possession late to secure the win and earn a split on the day.

Mount Olive returns home for its next contest against Chowan set for Tuesday at 7 p.m.