WILKES-BARRE, PA. -- Gwynedd Mercy opened their 2019 season but was on the wrong end of a 22-9 decision at King's Thursday evening.

Laura Pelczar paced the offense with three goals. Meleah Hoats added a score and an assist. Victoria Brauenle, Jill Kane, Victoria Mollitor, and Anna Bernicker also tallied for GMercyU.

Braeunle was tops in groundballs (6), draws (5), and caused turnovers (4). Jamie McCarney tied a personal best with three groundballs.

Mary Kate Klodarska led the Monarchs with a game-high five goals. Teammate Jen O'Conner added eight points on three scores and five assists.

Trailing 4-2 with just under 12 minutes in the first half, Gwynedd saw King's close out the stanza on a 7-1 run to lead 11-3 at the break. Two quick scores from Pelczar to open the second stanza was part of a 5-2 stretch to get to 13-8 with 14 minutes remaining in the contest. However, the Monarchs limited the Griffins to just one goal the rest of the way en route to the final score.

Rookie goalie Julia Smith recorded five saves in net. Orla Cottell made 10 stops for King's.

The team is back in action on Saturday when they have their home opener against Wilkes starting at 12 p.m.