WINCHESTER, Va. - Seventh-ranked Christopher Newport University opened the 2007 USA South Conference women's soccer slate Wednesday afternoon with a 7-2 victory over host Shenandoah.

The No. 7 in the South Region Captains (4-2, 1-0 USA South) scored three goals in the first 15:40 to take a commanding lead over Shenandoah (1-5, 0-1).

Trailing 5-0 at the break, SU rallied behind a pair of Krista Pattison goals midway through the second half.

Pattison tallied her first career goal at 59:34 when she re-directed a Jen Stoup cross, and then finished off a unassisted goal just 40 seconds later.

Unfortunately for the home fans, CNU answered at 64:19 and 65:40 to end any thoughts of a Hornets comeback.

Emily Chesbro had two goals for the victors, including the opener at 12:15 and the eventual game winner at 15:40. Becca Grady also scored twice while Jenn Campbell added a goal and an assist.

Shenandoah keeper Samantha LoPreto made one stop with CNU goalies Erin Wojtkun and Dineen Sampson combining to make three saves.

Box Score

SU continues USA South Conference play on Saturday at home against Peace College. Game time is 1 p.m.